Finding the Perfect Fit for your Fitness

So, you’re ready to get in shape this year? That’s great; there’s only one problem, you have 12 different gym chains within a 6-mile radius of your home, and you have to choose where to go. So how do you pick? There are many factors to consider when choosing, including price, environment, machines, and many other components.

There is a whole lot to like about Plant Fitness (PF). The biggest thing is that it is really cheap. Even better, there seems to be one on every corner of every city across the country. PF is worth it if you’re looking for a cheap and convenient place to get in some cardio workouts and use basic resistance machines. Most are usually open 24 hours and have a very welcoming environment. But, if you are planning on doing any heavy weight lifting or classes, PF may not be the place for you. They do not have any barbell racks but instead are stocked with smith machines, which could be a downside for some. The price is $10 a month, with $49 for a start-up fee and a $49 annual fee; you can also upgrade your pass for more perks for $25 a month.

Another option is the YMCA. These gyms are designed to have a welcoming family environment. No matter how experienced you are, the YMCA is meant for everyday people wanting to improve their health or people looking for a more intense workout. Gear-wise, the YMCA is very stocked and has many amenities, such as pools and sporting courts. They also offer many classes to take, ranging from kickboxing to yoga, and free babysitting! John Moyer, a frequent attendee at the Quakertown YMCA, says, “I like the facility a lot. I think that they have many good and effective machines and plenty of benches with good quality weights.” There are many other people who would agree with Moyer.

However, the YMCA isn’t the best deal around, and you’ll get the most value joining as a family or couple rather than alone. Usually, the monthly fees range between $30 and $70 a month, which is on the higher end for gym memberships. The YMCA does offer special deals for teens and the elderly. Finn McCarthy, an attendee at the Doylestown YMCA, says, “ I don’t have any needs not met, although if the membership were slightly cheaper, it would be nice.”

If those options seem too much to you, a home gym could be the right pick for you. There are many pros to a home gym. No monthly membership fee, you can blast your music, you can work out whenever, and you don’t have to travel anywhere. However, setting up a home gym can be very expensive and will take a big investment in time and money. Along with this, you will not be surrounded by a lot of people if you do not like being around people when you are exercising. The downside to this is that it could make you feel less motivated without others around you.
Finding the perfect gym fit for you can be challenging and seem difficult, but the best way to decide is to try a place out and see if it fits in your grove. Ultimately, the best gym for you will be the one that inspires you to keep coming back.