Was an improvement to your health a part of your plans for the coming months? Are you planning on joining a fitness club and getting some extra exercise?
If this is the case, you might want to consider more than just the price and location. Personal experience has taught me you need to choose a club that is careful about cleanliness and sanitation, service and most importantly, safety. There are also a number of other things to look out for.
Cleanliness and Sanitation
Check the locker room, showers, spa and rest rooms. These areas in a good health club will be sparkling and fresh. If they look or smell bad, that is a warning to you. The use of towels should be mandatory, and the exercise equipment disinfected between users. Paper towels and disinfectant should be provided for this purpose, and there should be instructions on the walls about sanitizing the equipment after use.
Safety
Is there a fully stocked First Aid Kit on hand at all times? Is the staff fully trained in First Aid and CPR? Is a portable defibrillator available?
An AED or automated external defibrillator can make the difference between life and death for someone who experiences a sudden heart attack. Each year, over 250,000 people die of heart attacks in the U.S. Health and Fitness Clubs are a high-risk area. The American Heart Association recommends that all fitness centers, including those in schools, have at least one AED.
Security and Personal Safety
Is there a secure place for your stuff? Make sure the lockers really are secure, many are very easy to break open. What about the parking lot? Is this well lit, especially for centers that open early or remain open late? At certain times of the year this may be important.
Consider all these factors when choosing a fitness club. If the gym does not measure up in the above areas, you should request they change, or look elsewhere. Your health and safety are paramount.
If you are not sure, then ask! A quality health and fitness club will be only too happy to show you the first aid kits, and the defibrillator, and to tell you about the staff’s first aid training.
