Many people believe they can get fit at home, but it is difficult maintaining motivation whereas joining a fitness club could be the best option. However, you need to asses what your priorities are and try to find a club that will meet these needs.

If you choose your club well you will probably be a member for a long time; the reverse is also true. Many people underestimate the need for a club close to where they work or live because traveling distance/time play an important aspect of how frequently you attend.

Make sure that the instructor has the necessary experience to work with you so he should be a certified professional that can work with you safely and effectively. He or she will need to know if you have any specific needs so these can be accommodated immediately or arranged for the future. If you speak to the staff about their facilities and training programs, this will give you a good idea about the customer service level they provide. Some fitness clubs have their own dietitian and physical therapists that can offer additional services.

Often it is the opening times of these clubs that let them down and he standard range of programs is not varied enough to suit most peoples needs. If your fitness club offers group classes, choose the facility that offers the classes you really like; you can do a trial class to check it out if you want. Check if there is enough equipment for all the members otherwise, you will waste time waiting for your turn instead of working out. The sign of a good club is well maintained machines so look to see if there are any that are not working and if there are, try to find out how long they have been that way.

Never pass up the opportunity to attend a club function if you are invited before you join as it is surprising who you can meet and you might even find a training buddy. While you are doing this research into the club, find out if the membership cost is fairly stable each year and if there are any other costs involved not mentioned on the club tariff.

Before you make your final decision, check a few other fitness clubs that are local as well as there is nothing worse that finding another, better club after you have already paid the membership on another. There is no rush so don't choose the first club that comes your way and steer clear of clubs that continue to hassle you about membership as there is no excuse for this type of behavior.