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NCHPAD - Building Healthy Inclusive Communities

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Key Factors


Your next step should be to identify local fitness centers. Ask your family and friends, check the phone book, or go on-line. Key factors to keep in mind when choosing a fitness center are:

Location. The general consensus is that the easier it is to get to a fitness center, the more often you will use it. Ideally, the facility should be near your home and/or workplace. You may want to locate a fitness facility that can be reached by an accessible means of public transportation. Contact the facility by phone and inquire.

Cost. Membership fees/dues vary. Generally, you will be asked to pay a fixed amount to join, and then a monthly fee. Ensure that you understand exactly what is included in the fees often, such items as staff time, classes, pool use, child care, and even towels are extra. If the facility uses a contract, read the fine print, as you would when buying a car! Avoid signing up for a membership that extends beyond one year, as you can lose your money if the facility closes. And don't be afraid to ask questions; for example, if the equipment or other parts of the facility are not accessible to you, ask the facility if it is possible to receive a discount on your membership fees/dues. Some facilities offer sliding fee scales based on your income. Other clubs offer family or joint memberships to couples, partners, or friends. Many fitness centers offer waived membership fees at certain times of the year such as the peak season (January) when all of the new year's resolutions are made or summertime when many individuals decide to exercise outdoors.

Hours. While many fitness centers open early and close late, and some are open 24 hours, others have limited hours. These hours need must match yours. Make sure to visit the facility during the time that you would most likely use it. To decrease your waiting time for using fitness equipment, try off-peak times such as 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. or 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. on weekdays.

Equipment. There should be a variety of equipment, and it should be well-maintained. If you are looking for specific types of equipment, ask about them. It is also important to note the location of the equipment: is it accessible to you? Sometimes having fewer pieces of equipment that are spread out provide the user a choice of getting on the equipment from the right or left side and allows for space to place a mobility device.

Type. There are several different varieties of fitness centers. Multi-purpose facilities generally include swimming pools, tennis/racquetball courts, and other amenities. Gyms tend to focus more on weight training and general fitness. Personal trainers run studios offering one-on-one sessions. Other specialized facilities include Pilates, yoga, and martial arts. Think about how each facility will help you meet your fitness goals.

Classes. Does the center have the classes you want? Are enough class sessions scheduled so you won't have to wait for months to get in? Does the center offer anything in addition to basic classes, such as educational programs, special events, or workshops? For example, some fitness centers now offer book clubs or other social events that allow their members to get to know each other. The amenities are usually not free: if these include a facility with a juice bar, coffee shop, spa, or a dry cleaner, ask yourself what is really essential in order to reach your fitness goals.

Staff. Find out how many staff members are likely to be on-site while you are there. If you expect one-on-one attention, request this initially. You should receive a group or personal orientation to all of the equipment at no charge when you join. Many facilities provide staff that "walk the floors" and are available to answer your questions while you work out; however, other facilities charge personal training fees for detailed advice. These fees can range on average from $25 to $75 per hour. Trainers and instructors should be certified through a national organization such as the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM), American Council on Exercise (ACE), or National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA). Some certifications, such as the Registered Clinical Exercise Physiologist (RCEP) offered by ACSM, require knowledge of specific disabilities and chronic health conditions as they relate to exercise in order to provide a comprehensive exercise program that is safe and effective.

Word of Mouth. If the fitness center has been recommended by someone you know, ask about his or her experiences. You may also wish to check with your local Better Business Bureau to learn if complaints have been registered against the facility.

Accessibility. Is the building accessible? Are there accessible parking spaces near the entrance? Is there an elevator? Are lockers, showers, and restrooms accessible? Does the pool have a lift that can be used independently? Is staff knowledgeable in program design and adaptation? Is there cardiovascular equipment that can be used by the upper body only? The best advice is to try out the facility for yourself and determine if it is right for you!


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