So you’ve made the decision to find a gym. Something likely triggered this. For most people it’s a negative emotion, not feeling good about you look and/or feel. Motivation strikes and you’re ready to do something about it. Here’s the problem… motivation is very fickle. If you don’t start building momentum as quickly as possible, that motivation will quickly fade and you’ll fall right back into what you led to being unhappy with your existing health/fitness.
We recommend getting started with something as soon as possible. You can always choose the wrong path and course correct later. It’s infinitely better than taking no action at all. That said, here are 5 tips for finding the best gym in Detroit so you don’t have to bounce around trying to find what suits you.
Convenience
The first thing everyone does when searching for a new gym is pop onto Google and search “gyms near me.” After all, we want something that is conveniently located near where we live or work. If getting to the gym is hard for you, this is one less barrier getting in the way. This also makes it much easier to fit into your routine, which is the key to consistency in the gym.
Let’s not forget about amenities either. If you plan to workout before and then head straight to work, you’ll need showers. Maybe you also need grab-and-go energy and/or protein after your workouts. Is it easy to park? It’s going to be a bit of a headache if you have to find street parking a half mile away and pay for it each time.
Reputation
Now that you’ve found something convenient, the next step is to see what clients and members have to say about the gym. Every gym is going to say they’re the “Best Gym in Detroit” and “Detroit’s Best Fitness Community” but let’s be honest, you don’t want to hear how great they are from them. You want to know what others have to say about their experience.
Maybe you’ve already been referred somewhere by a friend. Your circle’s opinions certainly carry the most weight, but the second best outlet is Google Reviews.
Here’s the thing though. Don’t just look at the quantity and overall rating. Actually read some. Customers taking the time to write thoughtful and specific reviews is a very positive sign. Click here for some examples.
Inclusivity / Community
Next, head on over to the gym’s social media page. This will give you a great depiction of the people that workout there and what the gym values. Here are some things to ask while you browse:
- Are they boasting how great they are or are they celebrating their clients?
- Are members and even coaches smiling and having fun?
- Does it feel inclusive or are you just seeing fit and in-shape people?
- Most importantly, can you see yourself training there?
A gym that is caring and wants to see you succeed will highlight its community above all else. If it’s focused mostly on promotions and sales, you’re likely just going to be another transaction.
Personal Success
If the gym you’re considering has passed these tests so far, the next thing to look at is whether or not they’re interested in getting to know you. You have individual goals and interests, your own unique experience, and require different things from the gym.
A gym that is interested in getting to know what has you motivated, what has and has not worked for you in the past, and what you’re hoping to accomplish will set you up for success much more effectively than one that just wants you to try a class.
Look for gyms who offer a consultation or what we call a No Sweat Intro to get started. They’ll listen to you and offer specific recommendations. Even if you find that gym isn’t a fit, you’ll likely walk away with some free knowledge or resources to help you on your fitness journey. Good gyms will even refer you to others if it’s a better fit. Trust us, it’s worth your time!
Owner Presence
This is one you’ve likely never thought of. It’s also a bit harder to asses during your initial search, but you should be able to get a sense of how present the owner is both online and during your initial visit. Note, this doesn’t necessarily mean physically present.
Why is this important? A hands-on gym owner likely started their business to help others. It’s a difficult industry. Everyone benefits from gyms, but few have and actively utilize a gym membership. A present owner is going to invest more in your success, directly or indirectly. You’ll recognize this by how welcoming you feel and the attention to certain details.
Do the coaches know you by name and what you’re working towards? Are the workouts tailored to the interests and goals of the members? Does the community support your individual success? The chain gyms like Planet Fitness, Orange Theory, and F45 are cookie cutter. They create workouts and experiences tailored to the masses. These owners are likely in it for the financial gain, not to transform lives.
You won’t always see present owner, but you will certainly feel it!
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Follow these tips and we guarantee you’ll find something that fits your individual needs and sets you up for success. Just remember, the most important thing you can do now is to take action!