Gyms Washington DC

If you have never been to a gym before then it is quite possible you aren't sure how to tell a good gym from one that may not suit you. Many of the things you should look for are simply common sense, while other things are not so obvious. It is up to you to choose what is important to you.

It is always a good idea to try out a facility at the time you are planning to work out at so you know what sort of conditions you will be facing before you sign up for a membership.

• Some of the best gyms around are also the most reasonably priced.
  
  
• Be aware of what you are looking for in a gym and what you will be paying for in a membership. If you just want to use the weights but are getting charged for the sauna, racquetball courts, swimming pool, etc., you may wish to look into a no-frills gym at a lower rate.
  
  
• Many gyms actually justify rate increases because of adding new equipment or services that nobody wanted or even uses.
  
  
• Substance should always win out over glitz and glamor.
  
  
• Price should also be judged according to location. A nearby gym at a slightly higher rate may be worth signing up for rather than a further away gym at a lower rate. If you don't go then you are wasting your money anyway.
  
  
• For a good basic gym, the average rate is around $30 to 40 per month. Lower rates often limit the number of days you can workout during the week while higher rates often include more services and facilities.

If the gym is dirty and the equipment is falling apart then chances are it is not a good choice.

• Look for well-maintained equipment and a clean facility.
• Check the benches and machines for fraying cables and stitching.
• Check dumbells for loose plates and rust.
• Look at the cardio machines for wear and tear and listen for strange noises.

Anybody can throw on a T-shirt and sit at a ...