I adore my gym. It’s a place where I feel comfortable working out, which is a complete change from my last gym, where I never felt dressed-up enough for my yoga class and almost caught myself wanting to wear make-up on the elliptical machine. The place was packed with Muscle-Heads and Gym-Queens (kind of like Prom Queens) and I couldn’t wait to get out of there. I’ve finally found a gym I love, and here’s why…
My gym opens at 5 in the morning and they close at 11 at night. That means that they’re always open when I want to work out, which means I’ll never be able to use their being closed as an excuse for not working out, right? So if you’re thinking of joining a gym, make sure their hours fit your schedule.
My gym has everything I need to work out, including rows and rows of cardio equipment (rowing, stationary bikes, treadmills, and elliptical machines) plus free weights and all kinds of other strength training machines and gear. It’s all well-maintained and modern, too. Before you join a gym, check out their equipment and make sure it’s top-notch, and they have everything you need to do your own work out regimen.
Besides the main workout gear, there's also a wide selection of specific equipment like kettlebells, medicine balls, battle ropes, and stability balls for functional training exercises. They regularly update with the latest gear too, so there's always something new to try that can add a spark to a stale routine. Especially essential are the various resistance machines and squat racks for those looking to increase strength, along with mats for yoga and stretching to round out a holistic fitness approach.
My gym has an awesome personal trainer on staff, someone who has really helped me meet and continue working towards my own fitness goals. But aside from him, the entire staff at my gym is friendly, helpful, and professional. They never sling attitude, and they all know how to use each piece of equipment.
The sense of community is palpable, as the staff often knows members by name, adding a personal touch that makes each visit more pleasant. Even during the busiest hours, they manage the flow with grace, ensuring the space never feels too crowded. Their expertise is not limited to the gym floor – they also offer solid advice on nutrition and lifestyle habits, contributing to a comprehensive approach to wellness. It's like having a support squad that cares about my health as much as I do, making every workout feel tailored and focused.
My gym also offers different classes, from cardio kickboxing to yoga to Zumba. If having your classes at the same gym where you work out is important, check a gym’s schedule of classes before you join.
I often hear people say they’d join a gym if it wasn’t so expensive. M gym isn’t pricey at all — $99 to register, then only $9 a month. Look at it this way: most people spend more than that on fast food in a month! And which is better for you?
The locker room at my gym is fantastic. They have a gorgeous, clean shower, plenty of lockers and bench space, and even a lighted vanity and hair dryer. It’s always a good idea to check out the locker room in a gym to make sure it’s clean before you join. If not, you could en dup with all sorts of nasty skin irritations, like Athlete’s Foot. Ick!
Additionally, the privacy offered in these immaculate facilities is ideal for anyone needing to transition from a workout to work. The lockers are spacious enough to store all your gear, and the area is well-lit, making it easy to find your belongings. Plus, the inclusion of complimentary toiletries is a thoughtful touch that saves you from packing extra items in your gym bag. It's another way this gym shows they understand their members' needs and want to provide an environment that is not just about exercise, but about complete self-care.
I listed this one with a question mark because few things on the planet irritate me as much as the music they blare at my gym… but once in a while, they’ll play a song I love right away, something that kicks my work out up a notch. Thank god for iPod!
Those are just a handful of the reasons I love my gym. I can’t imagine leaving and joining another gym, unless I move to Florida or something… it’s fantastic! What do you love about your gym, and why? Or do you have any gym horror stories to share?
Top Photo Credit: AtTheSquare