Gym memberships can be pricey but are well worth it.  Investing in your health in the long run will actually save you money!  In 2008, the estimated cost of obesity was said to be $147 billion.  Paying for medical tests and monthly medications is no doubt more costly than a gym membership.  Now that you have decided to join, find out how you can make the most out of your gym membership:

There are many options when it comes to choosing the right gym.  Some health insurance companies will give you money for joining!  Check to see if your insurance provider will reimburse you part of the costs for being a member.  Before April 1st, ask your gym for a copy of your contract – if you did not save it – and a receipt of your monthly payments.  Send both into your insurance company for a check that may range from $150 to $500!  Also, check online to see if your health care provider has secured a reduced cost for its members at a nearby gym.

Many gyms provide new members with one or more free training sessions.  As a personal trainer, I know the purpose of this is to get you to buy more, but you have no obligation to do so.  In fact, this initial visit should be an educational hour on understanding how your body moves.  If the trainer does not analyze your posture and movement, don’t waste your time going back.  A properly trained professional will give you advice on how to maximize your workout sessions and avoiding getting injured.  If you have questions about how to use the machines or whether you are doing a move properly, they will help you with that too.  It’s your job to follow up with free sessions.  Most newly hired trainers will jump at the chance to give you a session.  It’s also possible that you have a free yoga or Pilates private session, so don’t forget to check your contract or ask the sales rep.

Group exercise classes typically are included in your gym membership.  They provide instant motivation as you schedule your favorite class into your daily planner.  Find a good teacher and it’s almost like having a free personal trainer.  Group classes have a higher rate of injury than working with a personal trainer so if something feels awkward or hurts, make sure to let your instructor know!  They should provide you with a modification.  I love group classes when I need to get back on track.  Find a killer class by looking on sites like Yelp to see if other members have reviewed classes they enjoyed.  If you feel lost in your gym, a simple group exercise class will help teach you how to use weights so you can feel like a pro on the floor.

Most gyms vary in what they provide to their members.  For those with spa-like services, ask for first-time client discounts.  Same goes for clothing stores, but beware of the price hike that may exist.  (I bought a lululemon shirt at my Equinox for $42 thinking I was saving 20% off with my coupon but when I got home, I peeled the price sticker off to reveal it only cost $44 at the lululemon store!  … How quickly 20% became $2!).

Be nosy!  You know those fliers up on the countertop where you check in each day?  Pick one up and read them!  You never know what partnership deals your gym has been working hard to land.  From a VIP invite to a nightclub in the city, to an open house sponsored by your favorite athletic beverage company, don’t miss out on freebies and swag!

What unique benefits does your gym offer?

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