6 Common Mistakes People Make When Choosing Gym Memberships

If one of your resolutions for 2024 is to get in shape, you may be looking to join a gym. However, before you take the leap, read about the six most common mistakes people make when choosing a gym membership. If some seem obvious to you, that's a good thing. It means you're that much more likely to work up a sweat in a gym that fits your needs and household budget.

1. Ignoring location

One of the most important considerations when joining a gym is where the gym is located. For example, what happens when you join a gym close to work and then change jobs? Will you still make the drive? The gym you choose does not necessarily need to be right down the street from your home, but it should be near enough to get to in a reasonable amount of time, even if there's snow on the ground or you're short on time. There are more than 47,000 gyms in the U.S., so for most people, it should be possible to find one fairly close to home.

2. Failing to take advantage of trial periods

You know that feeling when you just "have" to purchase an item because the advertisements make it look so great? Later, once you've tried it out, you're far less impressed? The same thing can happen when you join a gym. Between advertisements, things you've heard others say about it, and how much you have imagined you will enjoy the experience, it's easy to convince yourself that it's right for you.

Taking advantage of a trial membership is one way to know for certain if you're making the right choice. Let's say you're a person who likes to work out in relative peace. However, during your first week at the gym, you notice how noisy it is. There's music blaring, equipment banging, and a loud group of guys who always seem to be there. In short, the vibe makes you anxious. If you'd signed up for a trial membership instead of joining outright, you would have known it was not the right environment for you.

3. Not looking into at-home options

Some of us need to be outside our homes, either in a gym or a workout class, to stick with an exercise routine. Others prefer to be alone, working out with an online instructor, or creating our own workout plan. If the latter describes you, you might want to look into one of the many at-home programs available. For example, if what you really like is pilates, there are plenty of programs that walk you through comprehensive workouts. If your preference is weightlifting, there are a host of trainers who will work with you via Zoom or Skype.

If you're not a person who thrives working out in the presence of other people, you're unlikely to get the most out of a gym membership. Instead, consider opening a savings account where you can slowly put away the money you'll need for any equipment you're missing.

4. Falling for a slick sales pitch

Gyms are like any other enterprise -- they're in business to make money. There is absolutely nothing wrong with wanting to put more money in the bank, but that ambition can lead to shady practices. For example, some gym memberships include hidden fees, long-term contracts, or additional charges tacked on if you use a specific gym facility.

If you're new to gym memberships, it's easy to be distracted by the promises being made by the very buff salesperson. However, reading the fine print before signing your name on the dotted line is the best way to avoid unpleasant surprises, like a recurring surprise credit card charge.

5. Forgetting to make sure equipment and amenities meet your needs

If you're a serious weightlifter, make sure the gym's equipment will meet your needs. On the other hand, if your favorite form of exercise involves classes, like yoga or barre, find out if those classes are offered and if they're available at a time of day that works for you.

On the other hand, if the facility has a pickleball court and swimming pool -- neither of which you will use -- ask yourself if you're willing to pay more for a membership that includes amenities you don't need.

6. Not using a credit card to maximize your fitness rewards

The following credit cards can help you capitalize on your fitness goals:

Studies show that people who exercise regularly decrease their risk of certain diseases and, on average, live longer. However, to get the most out of it, it pays to find a gym that you enjoy. As an added benefit, you have the option of covering the cost of gym membership, clothes, and accessories using a card that pays you back.