1. Cost

   Can you fit the monthly or yearly membership fees into your budget? Compare prices and features among clubs, just as you would before making any other significant purchase. A more exclusive health club may offer spa-like services such as a sauna or hair dresser, but remember, you will be indirectly paying for those services as part of the higher membership fees -- whether you use them or not. Is it worth paying more to belong to a fancier club if you never use the "extras"?

1. Child Care

   If you have kids, ask: Does the facility offer child care services? If so, have you checked out the playroom? Have you inquired about and verified the child care staff's qualifications?
2. Convenience
   Does the club have a location close to either your workplace or your home? Is it easy to get to? Is traffic a problem at the times you need to use it? Is it close enough to get in a workout at lunch? Convenience is key, as choosing a club that is out-of-the-way will prove an easy excuse not to exercise.

3. Comfort

   Would you be more comfortable in a women-only gym? Does the gym seem to more packed with would-be Mr. Universe contestants than us regular folks? If you feel self-conscious or "out of your element" during your initial visit, you won't feel any differently when you join. Choose the gym with the environment you find most welcoming. If you do not, you'll dread going and eventually, you will stop altogether.

4. Classes

   Be sure to ask for an exercise class schedule. Look over it to make sure enough classes that interest you are offered on a regular basis and at times you can attend them. If the intensity or impact level isn't listed, be sure to ask. If you're a beginner, a schedule full of high-impact classes just won't work. If you find a few classes that interest you, ask about a pass for attending a class without joining so you can give it a trial run.

1. Contract

   Before joining, ask to review a copy of the contract at your convenience (and away from that overly eager staff member encouraging you to "join right now to lock in this special rate!"). Have someone else look at it to make sure you haven't missed anything in the fine print. Never sign a contract without fully reading it carefully in its entirety.

2. Commitment

   These days, most gyms require a year-long commitment, if not longer. You should consider your likelihood of moving, and ask if the membership would transfer to another branch in that case (or if you could terminate your agreement). A month-to-month membership at your local YMCA may be a better choice if you aren't ready to commit to a 12- or 18-month health club contract.

3. Cancellation Policy

   What if you get sick or injured? Is there a no-refund policy? Can your membership be put on hold or cancelled? If not, you may have to pay fees through the duration of your contract, even if you are not able to work out for weeks or even months.

4. Cooling Off Period

   Some states have a mandatory "cooling off period" for contracts. That means you have the right to cancel a contract you've signed, with no obligations, within a specific number of days. Washington State, for example, allows you to cancel a health club membership under the Health Studios Act. There, you can cancel within three days of signing the contract, and the amount of refund you are entitled to will vary according to the type of contract. Check with your state's Attorney General's office to find out more.

5. Certification

   Many gyms now offer one-on-one consultations and personal training. Ask if the trainers are certified before signing up for their services. Certified trainers have met requirements set by a nationally-recognized organization, such as the American Council on Exercise (ACE).

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