They are popping up in retail strip centers everywhere – fitness clubs that allow you to workout anytime you want, 24 hours a day, for a very low monthly fee (some as low as $9.95 per month). With prices this low, how can you go wrong?
America is the capital of the world when it comes to fast food, drive through windows and get what you want when you want it, so why not have it this way with fitness? The business plan is simple: Keep it cheap, get it when you want and make sure you can get in and out in no time.
But truthfully, are these types of gyms actually getting people in shape, or are they just selling memberships? The question is, can you actually get in shape and stay in shape with one of these memberships?
The Membership Dilemma
As much as gyms ‘sell’ you on wanting to help you get into better shape, the fact is they would never be able to actually hold all of their clients if they actually showed up to exercise! Gyms know that most people either won’t use the facility after a few weeks or will drop out for good after a few months.
Now, the fitness clubs that are open 24 hours do meet a need. Sometimes it is hard to find time to work out during the day, so the convenience of going to a gym any time you wish, letting yourself in and doing your routine is attractive to some people, especially those with complicated schedules.
Unfortunately, those 24 hour locations usually don’t have a professional trainer on hand to give you advice. And if you know what to look for, you will find that the equipment is not exactly “top of the line”, well maintained or useable. In fact, many times, I hear “Well, I’m getting what I paid for”.
Ready to Get Serious? Try a Boot Camp
Many of those who have tried the cheap, convenient gym membership but still hate how their pants fit are now turning the fitness boot camp program. The reasons are simple:
- Boot camp provides a structured, supervised exercise program
- We do not rely on equipment for results and can use a wider arrange of exercises
- The group provides accountability and motivation
- You get faster and better results
The bottom line is that while boot camp costs more than a cheap gym membership, you ultimately get what you pay for. And if you are ready to invest in yourself and stop discounting your health and well being, than boot camp may provide to be the best decision you’ve ever made!
