Gyms/health clubs/leisure centers

Ok so what’s the basic difference?

Broadly speaking a gym will focus its facilities on weights and machines. There will plenty of choice for strength building and cardiovascular work outs. Often there is a studio with a choice of aerobic type classes. Gyms tend to be privately run and are less expensive than health clubs as the facilities are more limited.

Health clubs will have weights and machines too but tend to have a more holistic approach. Facilities range from swimming pools to tennis courts to beauty treatments to restaurants to crches. Inevitably, these tend to be the most expensive.

Leisure centers are funded and managed through the local authority although they are often run by private companies on the local authority’s behalf. Emphasis tends to be on family friendly and accessible facilities and price-wise they are usually very reasonable. The quality and range of facilities varies enormously but there is usually a pool, a gym and some classes available.

All three tend to be fantastic places to get support, train in a safe environment and meet fellow exercisers.

The three key things to consider are cost, location and facilities.

-         What is the joining fee? What is the monthly cost? Can you pay-as-you-go? Are there discounts available? Is there a free trial period? Is there an off-peak period?

-         How easy is it to access? Is it near your home or work? Is there parking? How long will it take to get there? What are the opening times?

-         What facilities are you likely to use? Don’t be paying for extra “luxuries” if all you want is access to a treadmill.

There are over 6,000 clubs to choose from – if you do some research, take your time and don’t over commit to something you can’t sustain either financially or practically then you and your health can only benefit from the advantages of joining a club.