Here are some tips to help you choose a gym:

• Shop around. The fitness business is very competitive, and you'll probably find several gyms near where you live. Visit as many as you can. Visit at the times you're most likely to use the gym.
• Look for bargains and promotions. Many gyms will offer promotions or incentives to encourage you to sign up.
• Be aware of long-term commitments. Many gyms will want you to sign a contract for a membership lasting a year or more. This is sometimes a good deal--but only if you're sure you'll stay with the program.
• Location is important. No matter how good a deal you are offered, a gym that's far from you will be harder to get to, and the cost of gasoline or public transportation might negate what you're saving on your gym membership. If you want to keep up your exercise regimen, find a gym that's somewhere between your home and workplace.
• Does it fit your schedule? Hours of operation must be consistent with when you'll want to use the gym.
• Get to know the staff. Are they knowledgeable and courteous? Do they seem to have sound ideas about training methods?
• Ask about workout classes. Does the gym offer classes in specialized activities? Are they included in your membership, and are they held at convenient times?
• Find out about the members. Do they tend to be much more (or less) serious about fitness than you are?
• Inspect the showers, steam baths, toilets, and lockers. How clean are they? Are plenty of towels provided to wipe off the equipment?
• Inspect the equipment. Is the equipment modern and in good shape, and is there enough of it to go around? Are there time limits, or times when certain equipment is off-limits?