How to Choose the Right Gym

​by Ryan Humphries, CSCS, Co-Owner, Axistence Athletics

Let's say you've recently switched from telling yourself you're going to join a gym to actually joining a gym. Excellent. The #1 way to start a successful workout program is to find a gym that's a good fit. If you don't like the vibe, you probably won't go, and half the battle is getting through the door on a regular basis.

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Most people start with a basic search: Gyms near me. Then they compare reviews. But one person's four-star perfection might be a one star suck-fest for you. You need to first decide what kind of workout fits the way you like to exercise. Because this much is true: If you hate the workout or the environment, you aren't going to want to show up. 

Location matters. But it isn't everything.

At Axistence, many of our members live near us in southeast Denver - usually coming from Lowry, the Tech Center, Virginia Village and Cherry Creek. But we have a few outliers that live in Green Mountain and Evergreen. Why do they travel to southeast Denver? Because it fits their goals... and their personality. Decide how far you want to go, but don't limit yourself if a little more driving will get you to a gym you love.

Think about your workout style.
The fitness industry has exploded in the last decade and with so many options to choose from; sometimes it’s tough to wade through the gimmicks. Should you compare personal trainers in Denver? Or maybe try Orange Theory? CrossFit? What about those HIIT classes at the place open 24 hours a day? 
 
Stop and ask yourself two questions: What are my goals? (Weight loss? Learning skills? Gaining strength?) And What kind of workouts do I like? (Large group or small? Routine classes or variety? Close community or more anonymous?)
 
Once you figure out the type of gym you want and how far you're willing to travel, narrow your options further by comparing these six things.