Health clubs  Beginners guide  Health club membership

Health club membership

Health club and gym membership is something that can be the deciding factor as to whether someone exercises or not. Aspects of a membership which matter include:

• Price
• Contract length
• Payment scheme
• Value for money

Health club membership fees

The Fitness Industry Association (FIA) published information on health club membership prices. The research suggested that:

• The majority of membership prices are between £150 - £350 per year.
• The majority of membership prices are less than £500 per year.
• Health clubs with a registration fee have higher retention figures than health clubs or gyms without these initial fee.

Health club contract length and payment

There are 3 basic payment schemes for health club or gym membership.

1. Pay over the counter on each visit
2. Monthly membership (direct debit payment)
3. Annual health club membership.

Peak and off-peak memberships

Not only that but there are usually two different health club membership packages depending on whether you want to use the club. Peak times in any club are usually 5pm - 10 pm Monday to Friday. Any times outside this space is called off-peak. The latter membership option is typically cheaper.

Value for money

Is your health club or gym membership going to be value for money? If your gym charges a high registration fee and a monthly charge, but the facility and classes on offer are high quality, then the cost may not matter. However, if exercise classes are limited or the equipment isn't up to scratch then any cost may be too high as a poor quality facility is a not used facility.

We always want value for money. Gym membership is no different.

NOTE: When in doubt shop around. Visit a small number of local gyms and compare the cost and facilities on offer.