There are countless gyms – and each has its own advantages and disadvantages. Finding the right gym can therefore take some time.
But once we’ve made a decision after a long search, we don’t want to google again, arrange trial dates and sign a new contract. But in many cases, this can be a good idea.
9 signs that changing gyms would be good for you
Many people stay in their familiar gym out of convenience – even though they are no longer satisfied. However, if the following nine signs apply to you, it is high time to change gyms.
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1. Broken devices – and repair is not in sight
A good gym will immediately take the necessary steps to repair broken equipment.
If it takes weeks at your current gym to replace broken equipment, that is a clear sign that you should look for another place to work out. You should Strength training where you have everything you need to do your exercises.
2. The journey to the gym takes more than 30 minutes
Here’s a rhetorical question: How often have you wished that there were more than 24 hours in a day? Exactly, all the time.
That is why it is so important to make the best use of the time available.
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Spending several hours traveling to and from the gym is almost always a reason to look for an alternative.
In big cities, for example, it is advisable to choose a gym that is within 15 minutes walk or by subway.
If it takes longer, it will always be easy to find an excuse, for example if it is too cold, too dark or too late. If the gym is close by, it is usually easier to overcome your laziness.
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3. The fitness classes don’t appeal to you
Maybe you initially liked the course schedule or particularly enjoyed a trainer’s lesson.
In the meantime, your favorite trainer has found a new job and the Pilates class you loved so much has been replaced with a HIIT class that isn’t for you.
Use such changes as an opportunity to explore what other gyms have to offer.
While you’re there, pay attention to the atmosphere between the class and the trainer – and of course the timing of the classes. This will help you figure out whether a change makes sense for you.
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4. Price-performance ratio is not right?
Of course, everyone has to decide for themselves when a financial limit has been reached.
But if you think you’re spending too much money on the gym even though you don’t really like the classes and equipment, you should consider switching to a cheaper or better equipped gym.
5. This is not acceptable: The gym is unkempt
Gyms are always filled with sweaty people. Hygiene should therefore be the top priority for operators.
It’s not just equipment like treadmills and kettlebells that need to be disinfected: there are also many less obvious things that need to be cleaned regularly.
If there are hairballs flying around in the corners, dirt collecting in the showers and sinks, dust sticking to less popular equipment or holes in the mats, your gym obviously doesn’t place much value on cleanliness and an attractive environment.
Considering the fact that poor hygiene can lead to infections, such conditions should be an absolute no-go for you.
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6. No sense of community?
Forming a #FitFam is more important for some people – CrossFit enthusiasts and yogis, for example – than for others. Those who only do machine training, for example, rarely come into contact with other members – and may not even want to.
But if you haven’t made any new acquaintances in the first few months, it might be worth considering changing gyms.
You have to ask yourself if community is important to you personally. Workout buddies at the gym can certainly provide a sense of mutual accountability (who wants to let friends down?) and more comfort.
7. The atmosphere doesn’t suit you
It’s all about the atmosphere when you go to the gym. If you go in and the vibe doesn’t make you feel confident or is generally discouraged, change gyms.
Serious warning signs include when coaches and staff are unfriendly or members exude a negative, overly competitive atmosphere.
You’ll be able to tell within one or two visits whether the gym’s energy is right for you. Listen to your gut feeling.
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8. Questionable sales tactics
Maybe you know the feeling of not being able to do a single bicep curl without a personal trainer trying to persuade you to invest in one-on-one training.
On the one hand, it’s annoying. On the other hand, it can lead to you getting a negative image of yourself and feeling unsupported.
And when that happens, you automatically go to training less often.
9. Simply change your routine
If you’re a member of a gym that only offers a certain type of workout and you’ve reached a training plateau, you should definitely change your routine.
Ask yourself: Are these courses getting more challenging? Am I getting stronger or better?
Your body will get used to the fitness routine you are currently doing. When this happens, you will eventually reach a plateau and will not be able to achieve new training successes.
The solution: Add a new gym to your workout routine – or do something different a few days a week. Jogging, yoga or a workout outside are great ways to add a little variety.
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