A Guide to Finding the Right Gym for You

Just over six months ago millions of people around the world made New Year's resolutions to get healthy, exercise more or lose weight. We have reached the half-way point of 2011 and for those of you who are still struggling to stay committed to your goals, this guide will help.

It can be difficult to find a gym or fitness center to be comfortable in to make these goals a reality. Here's a guide to help you find a place that fits your needs and personality in our community. These three easy steps can help you find a fitness center that will help you achieve your goals.

First, you need to decide what this goal is worth to you. How much are you willing to pay for classes, a trainer or a membership? There are a variety of options available in many different price ranges, so pick which is best for you.

Second, you need to know what you want. Don't sign up at a yoga studio if you won't actually go to yoga classes. Find a facility that offers what you want, when you want it. In our community there are many different options for facilities. You can choose somewhere that has a plethora of exercise equipment, somewhere that offers a variety of classes, specific classes, personal trainers and more. So, decide what works best for you.

The third step is to try it out. Most gyms or studios offer some sort of trial pass for little to no cost. Before you decide to commit to one place, try it out for a week to see what you think. Using this pass gives you the opportunity to make sure the hours of the facility work well with your schedule, as well as the chance to try some of the equipment and classes. If you like the atmosphere and what the facility has to offer, sign up at the end of your trial period and keep pushing to reach your goals.

Within our community there are a variety of fitness centers, each with something different to offer. Below is a list of a few options with a short description of their facility and a link to their website. Check online for current membership rates.

YMCA – The YMCA offers a variety of classes and exercise equipment as well as activities for both adults and children. The Shoreline facility has a pool and offers a variety of sports activities such as basketball and volleyball for all levels. Fitness classes such as yoga, step aerobics and circuit weight training are offered in all levels to best meet your needs. Classes are offered throughout the day to fit your schedule. Membership options are available for individuals, couples, families and seniors.

Tree House Iyengar Yoga - This Shoreline yoga studio offers classes at a variety of levels for all to participate. Designed as a progressive experience, beginners will starts with level 1 before moving up. Kids, teens and pre-natal classes are all available as well. Skilled instructors with years of practice and experience guide you through these relaxing and meditative moves to find balance in your life.

24-Hour Fitness – One of the more well-known gyms is 24-Hour Fitness, offering a wide variety of classes, personal training and exercise equipment to work on your own. Yoga, cycling and dance are among the classes offered here. With classes throughout the whole day, you can find the right class at the right time that will help you excel. A variety of personal training opportunities are also available. Though this membership may be a bit more expensive than others, the facility is very large and offers a wide variety of activities, equipment and classes and the opportunity to exercise at all hours of the day.

Planet Fitness – For less than most of the bigger facilities in the area, Planet Fitness offers group fitness classes aimed at different areas of interest in the body such as back, legs and abs. These classes are offered throughout the day and allow for personal training time as well. According to their website, they don't have all the bells and whistles, they just have a clean, sleek fitness club where you can get healthy for less.

This is not a comprehensive list of fitness centers and studios in the area, so if these don't fit your needs, keep looking online and in the phone book to find the right place for you.