Every January millions of Americans pledge to start an exercise routine and get into shape. The initiative to get into shape is there, but on our quest to look and feel better we often neglect our pocketbooks.We spend too much money on gym memberships at the beginning of the year with a vow to do better, and then 40 percent of us give up on our fitness goals* by June and quit going to the gym. So, is there really a way to save money and try to find new ways to get into shape? Here are some tips to help you save on your gym membership:
Take a Test Drive
Before you commit to an annual contract at a gym, ask if you can have a trial period to test out the facility. This will give you a feel for the atmosphere of the gym and you’ll get to see if the machines you want to use are actually available at the times you’ll be there.
Wait Until Summer
Sure, we all want to start out the New Year with a fresh start, but you might be able to save more money if you wait a few months (and you’ll have a little more time to push off working out). The Consumerist* reports that many gyms have better deals when it’s warm out because they are trying to lure people inside.
Take a Buddy
Many places offer a 2-for-1 membership deal. Plus, studies show that you are more likely to stick to a routine when you have someone to hold you accountable.
Use Your Resources
Some gyms post sign-up specials on Facebook and Twitter. For large chains, check Groupon* and RetailMeNot* for coupons and specials. Sometimes your health insurance company or employer will offer you a discount on a gym membership.
Look for Freebies
Large health clubs often have free lessons or classes once or twice a week. This is a great way to check out a new club and change up your normal exercise routine.
Haggle
Don’t be afraid to ask for discounts if you can commit to working out during non-peak hours or days. Ask if the gym is willing to waive the start-up fee if you can commit to paying ahead for a certain time frame (like paying for 6 months up front). If a membership includes things you won’t use, like a pool, ask for a discounted rate that doesn’t include them.
Check the Rec
Area recreation centers usually have a larger range of activities you can pick from if you don’t like to use bulky machines. If you only have a day or two a week to commit to working out, this might be a better option because many rec centers charge you per visit versus per month.
Pay Monthly
Most of us think we will go to the gym more often than we actually do, as illustrated by this humorous podcast* on NPR*. If you pay by the month, you can usually quit whenever you want (we’re not encouraging this but we know it’s in the back of your mind), so you’re not paying for something that you don’t use. But here’s the kicker, you actually have to take the time to go into the gym and cancel. You’d be surprised how many people keep their membership just because they don’t want to take 5 minutes to terminate it.
Cheat the Billing Cycle
When looking at a facility ask when the monthly billing cycle ends, then go in and sign up for your membership a few days later. This way you aren’t paying for an entire month when you’ve only been a member for a few days.
Getting into an exercise routine is a great fitness goal but it shouldn’t interfere with your financial resolutions. Set a realistic goal for how often you will commit to working out each week and decide what type of membership plan will be the most cost effective for you. Good luck on your resolutions and Happy New Year!
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