Categories
Blog

How Do I Join a Gym?

When you want to join a gym, it can be difficult to know where to start. There are so many gyms and fitness centers out there; how do you choose the right one? And once you’ve chosen a gym, how do you sign up? Don’t worry – we’re here to help.

In this blog post, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about joining a gym in Bellingham, WA. We’ll cover topics like choosing a new gym, signing up for a gym membership, and what to expect when you start working out.

So if you’re ready to get fit and have some fun doing it, read on!

Narrowing Down the Right Gym for You

Shopping around for a new gym membership involves weighing the pros and cons of big chain gyms versus smaller, local ones. Bigger gyms tend to offer a wider variety of equipment and classes and a streamlined approach to personal training. Smaller local gyms can offer a more specialized and tailored gym instructor-led experience.

So what are your goals? Are you wanting to stay focused on weight loss through cardio or gain upper body strength? Are you searching for the accountability found in group classes, or do you just need a quiet place to work out with a family member during peak hours without it being overwhelming?

Depending on your unique health journey, you must choose the gym that is most suitable for your goals, budget, and lifestyle needs. Ultimately, only you know what kind of gym best fits who you are and where you want to see yourself achieving new heights in a healthy lifestyle.

Compare Prices, Amenities, and Reviews for Most Gyms Near You

When it comes to finding the most suitable gym for yourself, there are a few important factors to consider. Free weights and machines, solo workouts and classes, amenities, and of course prices should all factor into your decision when selecting. Is a sauna a priority for you, or would you rather choose a membership that includes discounted rates on a Kids Club?

For many, a personal trainer is a very important amenity to consider. Even if this is not a priority currently, you will want to check in to see how well their trainers are rated for a future time.

Reviews can provide a good look into how a facility works on a day-to-day basis and what kind of people feel comfortable there. It’s important to strike the right combination between all of these elements that best fits your needs in real life. Comparing gym prices, amenities, and reviews can help you make the right choice for you so you can reach your goals!

Don’t Skip the Tour When Looking at a Gym Membership

Interested in getting a gym membership but still want to try it out before committing? Schedule a gym tour!

A tour allows you to step foot into the gym and experience it firsthand. You’ll get the opportunity to speak with trainers and current members while walking around the gym and getting familiar with it. All gym tours are free and you can even request a guest pass when you attend a tour so you can try it out for yourself.

Ask About New Gym Membership Discounts or Promotions Available

Depending on the time of year, you may be able to save money on a monthly membership fee or take advantage of special deals such as free passes for guests. Be sure to read the fine print; some of these offers might have restrictions in terms of how often you can use them and what kind of amenities might be included. If the gym doesn’t have any current promotions, consider contacting your health insurance or work HR to see if they offer any additional incentives related to getting your workout in.

Sign Up for the Gym That You Feel Most Comfortable With and Start Working Out!

Deciding which gym to join can seem overwhelming. Some boast about their killer playlists, while others insist their rates are the most reasonable – how do you decide where to go?

Listen to gut instincts and research reviews from local gym goers. Then it’s time to take the plunge and sign on the dotted line! Once those daunting forms are taken care of, get in contact with the instructor who will help make your fitness goals a reality.

Stop by Fitness Evolution to See Why We Are the Best Local Gym in Bellingham

Fitness Evolution Bellingham would love to help you get started on your fitness journey. After your tour, we’ll set you up with a complimentary first-time visit pass to use immediately or on another day. Our convenient location, great trainers, classes, and amenities are sure to better enable you on your path towards achieving total wellness! We can’t wait to meet you.

Categories
Blog

How Much Should I Pay for a Gym?

Are you considering investing in your health and wellness by joining a gym, but finding that the process can be more confusing – and more expensive – than expected? You are definitely not alone.

As Bellingham residents ourselves, we know how tricky it can be to figure out which gym or health club may best suit your needs practically and financially. We want to help demystify the process of choosing the right gym membership for you, so read on to learn more about what’s available in town, elements you should consider when making your decision, and tips on getting the most bang for your buck!

Consider What Type of Gym Would Fit Your Needs and Lifestyle

Deciding on a gym for membership can be daunting. In the midst of inflation, it might be easiest to just call around to find the cheapest gym membership. But then other questions pile up.

  • Do you need access to a swimming pool?
  • Are you investing in a gym membership for the group fitness classes and gym family feel?
  • Or would you rather have a place where you can just go in and out whenever you need that serotonin spike from physical activity?

Once you have a starting picture of a fitness center that would best fit your needs and lifestyle, then it’s time to choose a local gym. Gymgoers are able to commit more regularly to their physical fitness by opting for a convenient gym location. Ultimately, selecting the right gym gives you the opportunity to make exercise an enjoyable part of your regular routine.

National Average Gym Membership Cost

The average gym membership process can feel overwhelming, especially for those who are not able to commit to a long-term contract. Most gyms offer a monthly membership fee option to provide a more flexible and budget-friendly alternative to a large annual fee.

According to a 2021 studio implemented by Run Repeat, the average gym membership costs throughout the nation settled at $37.71 per month. This number will of course vary based on the local vicinity and cost of living, as well as which monthly gym membership level is chosen.

Are You Willing to Pay Extra for Specialized Gym Equipment and Unique Amenities?

When deciding whether to pay extra for a gym membership, it’s essential to consider what amenities are included, such as personal training, steam rooms, unlimited classes, and basketball courts. Consider how much use you will get out of those extras.

If training is something that you think would be beneficial to your fitness goals, then the additional cost of personal training might be worth it. If the steam room isn’t something you would use often, or if there are basketball courts nearby where you could practice your shots free of charge, then perhaps paying more for a gym membership with those features is not necessary. The decision ultimately comes down to personal preference and need. Weigh the pros and cons carefully before making a financial commitment.

Don’t Forget the Hidden Costs of Gym Memberships – Initiation Fees.

When it comes to investing in your health, deciding which gym is right for you is an important step. But first, be sure to understand the different fees these gyms require prior to joining.

Most monthly membership fees do not include the initiation fee (or joining fee). Each membership contract will also clarify what the cancellation fee is, if any.

As each gym is different, it would be wise to inquire or check online what these fees entail so that you end up with the plan that best suits your needs in terms of access and cost. It is also worth bearing in mind special offers or discounts that gyms may offer as a sign-up incentive!

Make Fitness Evolution Bellingham Your Home Gym Today

Picking the gym that’s right for you can seem like an overwhelming task, but it doesn’t have to be. Finding the best option requires research and planning so you don’t end up spending more money hopping from one membership to another. An online search can help narrow down your options and give you a better sense of the best option. Lastly, if you’re still unsure about which gym to choose or even just want to test it out before making a commitment, we encourage you to stop by Fitness Evolution Bellingham for a free first-time visitor pass. We believe that making an informed choice is essential when it comes to fitness and health; after all, it’s an investment in yourself!

Categories
Blog

What Are The Differences Between A Fitness Coach vs. Personal Trainer?

When you walk into a gym, there are often large signs that list the prices for personal trainers. You might think to yourself, “I can work out on my own, I don’t need someone to tell me what to do.” Or, maybe you’re on the other side of the fence wanting the guidance but being caught up by the cost. Either way, the different verbiage used in the fitness industry can be very confusing to the new gym goer.

While both fitness and personal trainers obviously sound like they would help you get in shape, there are some key distinctions between the two services that may help you decide which one is right for you. Let’s dive in.

The Fitness Trainer

A fitness trainer is defined as someone who provides guidance and instruction on physical exercise. These fitness trainers, commonly known as fitness coaches or fitness instructors, lead training sessions that cultivate a fun group experience.

By offering exercise programs in a group, attendees are able to experience a low-pressure way for people to come together and exercise. These training sessions are typically pre-planned to maximize group time by minimizing individual time with your fitness instructor.

While some might say that a virtual fitness coach could do the same, clients who participate in group fitness coaching can learn proper form and technique. Some fitness coaches may even adapt their plans to meet their fitness objectives in an efficient manner! Either way, a fitness coach is paid to serve you and your cohorts.

The Personal Trainer

In comparison to a fitness coach, that can hold a variety of roles, a personal trainer works one-on-one with clients to help them achieve their specific fitness goals. Most personal training programs ensure their trainers have past experience and exercise science education through certifying agencies.

Working with a certified personal trainer can give you the advantage of having your own personalized plan and the expertise of an experienced professional. Unlike traditional group classes, personal training gives clients one-on-one guidance in their workouts. Your certified personal trainer will assess your individual needs and goals to develop an exercise program tailored to you.

A personal training professional will also offer tips and feedback to make sure you’re doing each exercise correctly to maximize your results and stay motivated. With personalized attention, certified advice, and motivation, investing in a personal trainer may be exactly what you need to help achieve your health and wellness goals.

The Primary Difference Between Fitness and Personal Trainers

While fitness coaching and personal training may share some similarities in their roles, there is one major difference—the level of customization and personal attention that a personal trainer can provide to help you achieve your health, fitness, and wellness goals.

While both fitness coaches and personal trainers should be experts in exercise science, the latter offers tailored advice and guidance for every individual client depending on their needs. This can include higher levels of personal trainer certification, wellness coach education, sports medicine, and more. This additional education ensures that no two plans from a personal trainer will be exactly the same, since every person has different goals.

A personal trainer not only helps get you started but can also act as an ongoing support system on your journey to losing weight, increasing physical fitness, or recovering from a past injury.

Characteristics to Look For in a Fitness Coach or Personal Trainer

There are certain characteristics to look for in order to ensure you get the most out of your investment in a healthy lifestyle. The first and most important would be looking for a good local gym that prides itself on having fitness coaches and personal trainers who maintain proper certification and continually accrue the fitness knowledge required of someone who is personally responsible for helping individuals reach their health and wellness goals.

In addition to this, it’s important to find someone who has a background in exercise science, as well as motivation and nutrition knowledge – both of which are helpful for creating efficient and successful wellness plans.

Other qualities to consider include an outgoing personality with inspirational communication skills, as well as dependability – both during and between workout sessions. Working out with someone can feel very vulnerable, so while the right personality is unlikely a part of a gym’s hiring process – you need to consider what type of fitness professional you would be most comfortable with.

Fitness Evolution – Your Fitness Coach From Today On.

In conclusion, trainers and personal trainers are both certified professionals who can help people reach their fitness goals. While there are similarities between them, the major difference between a fitness coach vs personal trainer is the customization and attention that a personal trainer offers.

If you’re ready to explore what kind of workout plan might work best for you, stop by Fitness Evolution Bellingham Gyms for a free first-time visitor pass and meet the fitness professionals that make our gym the greatest.