Things to Consider When Evaluating a Gym

Whether you’ve just relocated to a different part of the country and are looking to find a new fitness home, you’re traveling for work and just need a solid place to drop in for the week, or it’s your first time making good on your New Years fitness resolution to get back into fighting shape, it can be challenging if not overwhelming to sift through all of your options.

Before joining a gym, consider observing a class or two; get a feel for the style & quality of instruction, the training paradigm, and the atmosphere. Connect with the Head Coach / Trainer for some pointed Q&A to find out a bit more about their rationale, their approach, and whether or not they would be the right fit to meet your needs.

At the end of the day, there are many great gyms out there, each with their own approach, atmosphere, and style.

Not every gym will be the best fit for you, but they can still be an excellent place to train for others.

Domains We Recommend in the Evaluation of Any Gym:

Class Structure

• Are classes conducted professionally?

• Are staff clear about what is being presented to & asked of participants?

• Is there an appropriate, well-run, task-specific warmup for the day of training?

• Are instructors consistent in managing athlete needs, class time, and space utilization?

Coaching Staff + Athlete Training Management

• Does the gym provide a beginner’s on-boarding program for new members?

• How well do the coaches communicate & provide appropriate support to both novice & seasoned athletes?

• What level of training have the coaching staff received?

• How much do the coaches spend time coaching v. motivating trainees in their classes?

Programming Design

• Can the staff effectively communicate rationale of training designs?

• Do daily workout designs fit into a larger, purposeful programming structure?

• How does the gym’s programming manage training volume, intensity, & frequency over time? Vibe & Atmosphere

  • Does the gym feel like a positive, safe, supportive place for you to train?

  • Are staff & members welcoming of newcomers?

  • Does the gym feel like a community while setting a culture of healthy interpersonal boundaries?

  Member Investment

  • How does the gym demonstrate its continued investment in improving the training value & experience of their members?

  • What services, education, and/or other extras does the gym provide in the way of member support?

  • Are coaches and/or management available to connect with athletes before/after class, via email, or for in-person dialogue?

    Logistics, Conveniences, Bells & Whistles

    • Does the gym provide a reliable class schedule, and do the class times work for you?

    • Would my commute to/from the gym be reasonable for me to achieve a consistent training rhythm?

    • Does the facility provide showers / a changing room?

    • Is the gym kept clean & well-organized?

    • What is the condition of the training equipment used?