Four Ways to Save on Gym Memberships

Save on Gym Memberships

If you’re like me, one of your resolutions is to lose a little weight (again). Dieting is a big part of that plan, but regular exercise also helps.

When it comes to working up a sweat, you’ve got two options: Work out at home or get a gym membership. Yes, the gym membership will cost money, but when you consider that you’ll have access to state-of-the-art gym equipment and expert advice, it’s money well spent. And just like your shrinking waistline, it is possible to trim the cost of that investment by following a few basic rules:

1. Explore Your Options 

Like any sizable investment, you’ll want to shop around for the best deal. Remember: The gym closest to your house isn’t always the best one and the one with all the fancy equipment isn’t either. Find a gym that has all the equipment you need, without all the extra stuff you don’t, at a decent price.

2. Get Ready to Haggle 

The membership coordinator at your gym is usually willing to negotiate a bit. Ask for a lower initiation fee or, better yet, no fee at all. Also see if they can match a lower monthly rate at a competing gym or throw in some classes that normally might cost extra.

3. Think Short Term

Most gyms will require you to sign an agreement that locks you into monthly payments for anywhere from six months to a year. Thing is, there’s a good chance you’ll be over this New Year’s resolution and done with the “gym thing” in two months (hey, just being realistic). Ask for a short-term contract – either month-to-month or three-months. You might pay a little extra for the privilege, but it’ll be worth it in the long run.

4. Wait Until March

If you sign up during the busy season (January), your chances of scoring some negotiated discounts and perks are pretty slim. You’ll also have to deal with going to the gym during one of the busiest months of the year. Instead, wait until March, when gyms are more eager to please potential new members. In the meantime, use that time to research your options … and practice your haggling skills.

5. Workout At Home

If you really want to save money, you can choose to workout at home and skip a gym membership.

Related: 10 Highly Rated DVD Workouts to do at Home

How do you save on gym memberships?