5 Ways to Save Money on a Gym Membership

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Posted by Money Tips Staff

One of the biggest internal debates that you may find yourself having in life is whether or not to join a gym. Making the decision to do so requires a commitment of time and focus, but it also requires money. Yep. Ironically while you’re trying to shave some inches off of your waistline, at the same time, there still has to be a way to keep your wallet as full of dollar bills as possible. If trying to fit your body into your budget has been keeping you from becoming a card-carrying gym member, here are some money-saving tips to consider:

Timing is everything. Due to New Year’s Resolutions, January tends to be a really popular time of year to sign up with a gym. Unfortunately, about thirty percent of those people stop going by spring. So, if you’re looking for a really great deal, March-July are some peak times to find some low gym membership prices.

Go gym window shopping. Rarely do you buy the first pair of shoes that you see. The same mentality should apply before committing to the first gym listed online in your area. In selecting the right one to suit your financial budget, also search for a gym that’s the most conveniently located to either your home or job (saving gas saves money), has the right hours for your personal schedule and a variety of workout options. One day you might want to get on the elliptical; another day, yoga may be more your speed. A gym should provide you with as much as you want to suit your needs.

Negotiate. Grocery stores provide coupons. Gyms offer promotions. Therefore, don’t assume that the price on the brochure is what you have to immediately pay as a new member. Many gyms have free trial memberships for a period of time to new joiners and after signing up, even more offer discounted passes on a rotating, seasonal basis. Also, if you’re someone who travels a lot, there are some gyms that will hold your membership until you return so that you’re not paying for time when you couldn’t be at the gym even though you want to. Don’t feel intimidated. More times than not, a cut on a gym membership fee requires simply doing a little research and asking about the ones that are available.

Check with your job. There are certain questions many of us don’t ever think to ask. “Do you provide gym membership discounts?” during a job interview may be one of them. However, this is a really relevant question (and perk) for employers because a healthy employee is oftentimes an efficient one. Some companies have arrangements with local gyms that give their employers automatic discounts, while others reimburse their employees a certain percentage of their membership on a quarterly or annual basis. If you’re not sure, ask Human Resources.

There’s yearly. And then there’s monthly. You know how it is. At the beginning of a New Year or right before swimsuit season, you’re excited about working out. You’ve bought some new sneakers, you found the largest tub of whey isolate you could find and you’re pumped! The first six weeks, you find yourself at the gym every other day. Lately, you’re lucky to get there once a week and it’s really bothering you because you paid for a year’s membership. Indeed, one of the biggest mistakes that can happen with you and a gym is making a long-term commitment, financially, before you’re sure. Until you get into the swing of things, opt for a month-to-month membership. If you’re someone who only goes when the mood hits—and that’s right before your birthday—most gyms have day passes available as well. Remember, it’s a lot easier to add to what you already have than to try and get out of the contract you already signed up for. Oh! And if you are contemplating an annual membership, make sure to read the contract thoroughly. Some gyms will automatically renew your membership every year and you’ll be obligated to pay the fee. You don’t want your gym experience to be a burden. Remember, it’s to be lifting pounds not adding stress!

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