Sept. 7, 2023

This paid piece is sponsored by GreatLIFE Golf & Fitness.

Considering joining a fitness center? Or maybe whether to renew your membership?

There are  key factors to consider that will make the difference for you in your fitness journey.

We sat down with GreatLIFE’s vice president of fitness, Randall Hill, to get an inside look at what you should be looking for in a fitness membership.

Clarity

Think all fitness memberships are structured the same? They’re not.

“Sometimes, memberships are structured for one person, and sometimes, they’re for multiple,” Hill said.

“If you have a number of people in your household planning to use the gym, that can easily add up to a lot more than you’re expecting.”

At GreatLIFE, membership options extend to individuals, couples, a single plus a child, and families, so you easily can choose the package that’s the best fit for the best value.

“All of our memberships include 24/7 access, unlimited group fitness classes, access to all locations and amenities,” Hill said.

Location

It’s like deciding where you’re going to live – location means a lot.

“It’s pretty simple – the more work it is to get to the gym, the less likely you are to work out there,” Hill said.

“If you’re having to fight traffic or drive out of your way, you’ll quickly find you aren’t getting the most out of your membership. We want to remove all obstacles by making your fitness journey as convenient as possible.”

That’s why GreatLIFE offers unlimited fitness at any of its locations, so there’s a gym close to where you live, work, go to school or enjoy spending time.

Flexibility

Life can change, and sometimes your memberships need to as well. While there’s definitely benefit in committing to a gym, you also should look for one that gives you needed flexibility.

“Sometimes, the demands of life just get in the way, or you realize the program offered at your gym just isn’t the right fit for you,” Hill said.

“One thing we always remind people at GreatLIFE is that we offer solutions. You can choose a multi-month or annual membership if you feel that’s right for you, but if you’d rather go month to month, you always can do that too.”

Bells, whistles and a helping hand

It’s one thing for a gym to come with all the latest-and-greatest fitness equipment, classes or extra amenities, but if you’re not able to make the most of them, you’re losing value.

Don’t choose a gym where you look around and feel lost or aimless.

“One thing we pride ourselves on is that every member receives a consultation with one of our trainers,” Hill said.

“The primary goal is to find out what your goals are and how we can help you make the most of your membership, whether it’s learning to use a machine or helping you try something you’ve always wondered about. We take the time to connect with people.”

Cleanliness

It’s a basic, right? Not necessarily. But a clean gym says a lot about the team behind it and the experience you’ll receive as a member.

“Take a look around,” Hill suggested. “Do you see people wiping down equipment? Are the floors clean? Does it look cluttered? Is the trash emptied? All the little things add up to big things.”

At GreatLIFE, members rave about the cleanliness, he said. And you’ll get to know the team keeping the gyms in top condition because they’re always visible.

Familiar faces

Speaking of seeing people, look around a gym as you make a decision about whether it’s right for you. Are you seeing team members interacting? Do they greet you or ask if you need help?

“Connecting with people is key, and the longer you’re part of the team, the stronger the relationships that can be built,” Hill said.

“We have low turnover, so you’re going to get to know our team. I’ve been at GreatLIFE nearly 10 years, and we have many people here as long or nearly as long as me. Plus, we promote from within. This is a company that’s all about growth and development – whether it’s our own team or you in your fitness journey. It shows, and it’s why our members consistently tell us they would recommend GreatLIFE to others.”

Being local matters too, he said.

“Fitness centers where the owners and top management live in your community naturally are more invested in the community and in your membership experience,” Hill said. “They’re committed to making sure you feel appreciated as a member and in giving back to the community in a multitude of ways.”

Ready to learn more about beginning your own “Great Life?” Go to joingreatlife.com to get started, or stop in any GreatLIFE fitness center. Current members: Do you know someone else who would love GreatLIFE as much as you? Refer them and get rewarded with a $50 gift card.