Back to school and the gym
Tuesday September 2 2008 Ross O’Donnell TIPS FROM THE TRAINER Yes, as the TV commercial says, ”it’s the most wonderful time of the year”… summer comes to an end and your last excuse not to workout just went back to school, you’ve run out of reasons not to workout or get to the gym. If you are looking for a gym, you’re in luck with several excellent options in the Orangeville area. Here are some tips to help in the selection.
Membership: Can you try a free class? A “free class” shows confidence in the program on the part of the owner. Is there a fee just to join? If so, what do you get for the fee? Is there a benefit to the joining fee or is it a club revenue generating venture. Can you join monthly, for three months, six months or a year? Are you locked into long-term contract payment plan? Most people are likely to tail off after about six months so offering nothing less than a year isn’t the consumers best buy unless you are completely satisfied and then it is your best option. Ask about active members. Gyms will quickly tell you they have 300, 400 or 500 members, but how many actually show up? An active membership of about 33 per cent is usually a good sign.
Facility and Programs: Is it equipped for what they are offering? If they have even 10 per cent of their 500 members show up, can they accommodate them or are you required to “wait your turn?” Is the facility and equipment maintained, clean and safe? As for classes, clubs offering 20-30 classes a week sounds great, but, statistics indicate that the average person attends 1.75 times per week and are creatures of habit and schedule. Pick a program that accommodates your schedule for 2-3 times a week with something you find interesting, have fun doing and get results. This way you make the program a part of your lifestyle and will more likely stick to it.
Trainers and Instructors: A gym can look great but its strength is its people! Are the staff certified, and if so, by whom? Can-Fit-Pro and C.P.T.N. are the nationally recognized fitness certification agencies. Unfortunately some gyms may hire uncertified, uninsured trainers and instructors to cut costs … but you still get to pay full price! Are there too many trainers all vying for clients creating an uncomfortable environment for the patrons? Specialty programs require additional certifications and expertise to teach. How long have the staff, instructors and trainers been there? A high staff turnover, as in any business, isn’t a good sign. Is the staff knowledgeable, friendly, motivated, having fun and genuinely enjoying themselves with the participants or just going through the motions?
Price: Be an educated fitness consumer, check around and compare price as it relates to the previous three categories before you commit.

 Ross O’Donnell, author of, “The Ultimate Fitness Boxing & Kickboxing Workout” is a Certified Can-Fit-Pro PRO-Trainer and owner of Fitness Kickboxing Canada Inc. He can be contacted at 942-1625 or info@fitnesskickboxingcanada.ca 

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