Ready to get in shape? Good! You're well on your way toward making positive, life-long changes. Now what? How about starting your journey at the local health club?

Why do people join gyms? People simply want to get more exercise into their daily lives, and a gym offers an environment that is motivating and encouraging.

Here are some reasons for joining a gym.

• You can improve your joints' range of motion, your vitality, your strength and your looks. Exercise is a great stress reliever and can give you confidence.
• A gym gives you a wonderful opportunity to try new things. Never walked on a treadmill or never sweated through an aerobics class? Well, here's your chance.
• A health club can help you round out your exercise program. You can work with weights to help build your muscle strength and endurance, then hit the elliptical machine or the stairclimber to help strengthen your heart. Or vice versa.
• Many clubs offer classes in yoga, tai chi, self-defense and martial arts in addition to regular exercise classes.
• You can get one-on-one instruction from the staff, who are qualified to make sure you work out safely and use the right form.
• A cold rainy day can't derail you because you have a climate-controlled environment.
• The equipment is high-quality, user-friendly and state-of-the-art, meant to encourage you to exercise.
• You can exercise in a safe place where you have people nearby who are certified in CPR and other lifesaving measures.
• Social support helps get you into the exercise habit. Gyms are a great way to socialize and get the emotional support you need.
• You can often find registered dietitians or personal trainers for an additional fee through a gym.
• You can join off-site programs such as hiking and skiing trips.
• Health clubs are open in the early morning and late evenings to accommodate all schedules.
• You are more committed to exercise if you are paying for a membership.

Belonging to a health club is one of the most important investments in your health that you can make. Join your local health club to get on the road to wellness.

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External Source National Institute of Health. Small grants program: Effects of yoga on quality of life during breast cancer. Accessed February 19, 2009