Switch Gyms?

susanaemendez

MFP Friends I need your help! Currently I am a member at 24 Hour Fitness and paying $35/month. My new employer will reimburse gym memberships up to $25/Month, so basically I'm paying $10 a month. HOWEVER, now that I started a new job, there aren't any 24HR locations near me and I haven't gone to the gym in a LONG TIME as a result of this.

The other option I'm looking into is cancelling 24HR and joining Colorado Athletic Club - Tabor Center. This gym is in the same building I work in, and is VERY VERY nice. However, I hear it's ridiculously expensive (like $100 a month, even for people who work in the building). With my $25 a month reimbursement, that's still way more expensive than 24HR.

Technically, I can afford to join Colorado Athletic Club, but I'm nervous about making the switch. They make you sign a year contract that I hear is really difficult to get out of. What if I'm not happy with the club? 24HR is much easier to cancel...

The overall goal is to get into the gym more often. Considering that CAC will be in my building and I can go right after work, or even during my lunch hour, it's very tempting. But is it worth the huge price increase? I've looked at other clubs in the area and none are as nice as CAC or even 24HR for that matter... Maybe I should just write a letter to 24HR and request they build a gym in Downtown Denver? Problem solved.

I'm so torn! Help!

melsinct

I am not in Colorado, but here in Connecticut almost every gym- from the chains to the fancy shmancy- all offer trial memberships. See if the more expensive gym has a one week trial membership for free or at a steep discount to test the waters.

KimmieBrie

Definitely try a trial for a week or so - at that price, they should certainly offer one.

I have a cheap membership by my house but kept the fancy one by work too because:
1) proximity - right out the back door
2) SUPER clean - provides shampoos/conditioner/soaps/hairdryers
3) NOT crowded at lunch probably due to higher price (PF is about a block away and it's PACKED at lunch - sardine time!)
4) Towel service - you realize it's a big deal when forgetting your towel prevents you from working out because now you can't shower before heading back to the office. It's also nice not having to tote a towel around on top of everything else.

Try it out. You may love it and this will make you want to go - which will make it worth it

ahamm002

75 bucks per month is still pretty expensive. If you think about it though, 1000 bucks per year may be the best investment you ever make if you go to the gym regularly. Being able to fit your exercise routine in during lunch break (I'm not sure what your schedule is like) is priceless. Also, in my personal experience, I'm a lot more likely to go to the gym if I'm paying 100 bucks per month than if I'm paying 25 bucks per month. Plus the more expenisve gyms are much nicer and less crowded (who wants a crowded locker room?).

eleanoreb

75 dollars a month is a bit steep, but it could be worse.. personally i think it's worth it to have a gym near your work. if you are sure you can afford it for a year (and you think you will be working at the same location), then do it!!

I think its smarter to pay 75$ and use it rather then 10$ and not get to go very much

Dammitviv

If they have a free membership, give it a try, can't hurt. But if it ends up being too expensive, maybe switch up your schedule and try working out before or after work. Another cheap option is to go walk or run on the Cherry creek path, its only 2 blocks from the Tabor center and it's nice during the daytime. I run down there in the summer when I can take an hour lunch (I work over at Auraria Campus). If you're concerned about safety on the creek trail, come over to the campus and walk/run, it's pretty here.

BobbyClerici

MFP Friends I need your help! Currently I am a member at 24 Hour Fitness and paying $35/month. My new employer will reimburse gym memberships up to $25/Month, so basically I'm paying $10 a month. HOWEVER, now that I started a new job, there aren't any 24HR locations near me and I haven't gone to the gym in a LONG TIME as a result of this.

The other option I'm looking into is cancelling 24HR and joining Colorado Athletic Club - Tabor Center. This gym is in the same building I work in, and is VERY VERY nice. However, I hear it's ridiculously expensive (like $100 a month, even for people who work in the building). With my $25 a month reimbursement, that's still way more expensive than 24HR.

Technically, I can afford to join Colorado Athletic Club, but I'm nervous about making the switch. They make you sign a year contract that I hear is really difficult to get out of. What if I'm not happy with the club? 24HR is much easier to cancel...

The overall goal is to get into the gym more often. Considering that CAC will be in my building and I can go right after work, or even during my lunch hour, it's very tempting. But is it worth the huge price increase? I've looked at other clubs in the area and none are as nice as CAC or even 24HR for that matter... Maybe I should just write a letter to 24HR and request they build a gym in Downtown Denver? Problem solved.

I'm so torn! Help!

What is your time worth?
I'd go with that gym next door, but you do what your heart tells you.

And think about this!
Isn't this a GREAT problem to have?

Which gym...lol
I LOVE IT! That in and of itself is great progress, because if you're anything like me, my old problems were like which fast food place to binge, McD or KFC?

themommie

see if they have a one week trial membership so you can check it out before joining. If you are not using 24 fitness then it is a waste even at $10 a month...$75 is a bit steep, but if you can afford it and you will use it go for it. It sure would be alot more convenient. How much is convenience worth to you? You could also do walking and exercise dvds and go to the 24 hr gym 1-2 xs a week. Do what will help you most with your workouts......to me convenience is worth ALOT

crazyellybean

Ask if they have a 1 week trial to see if you like the gym before committing. If it's that expensive they have to have an option for you.

missikay1970

i wouldn't even try the new one, i would quit 24 and join the expensive one. from your own description, it is nicer and close proximity to where you will use it more frequently. the difference is only $65/month from what you're paying now, that's not a bad deal considering the perks. my vote: SWITCH and don't look back

pftjill

I can't imagine Denver not having a 24 hour fitness. How far away are you from the closest one. That is pricey. Why don't you try and talk them down in monthly price-or I know the rec center out here does a yearly price. That could make it cheaper.

MostlyWater

One of my motivatators is actually the cost of my gym membership !!!

But it doesn't have any other built in fees and I pay it every month, not in a lump sum. And, after the initial 12 month period, it's on a month to month basis with a right to cancel at any time. If your expensive membership is like that, it's not so bad. I take 10 classes a week. I don't have time or money for shopping or eating out so in a way it's helpful.

Only you can spend your money and your time. If you want a membership and will use it, you can make the time and money for it. You need to prioritize.

Articeluvsmemphis

look at all they offer. see if they have a trial membership and go at random times each day of that membership to get a feel for the atmosphere to see if you like it.

shellyc7182

Check and see if the more expensive gym has a discount if you pay the entire year up front. I know 24HF does, and if memory serves, it's quite significant! My fiance is a sales manager for a 24HF in the Houston, TX area. And as a 24HF member, go with the pricier one if cost is of little or no consequence! Sounds super nice!

susanaemendez

Thanks for all the input everyone!!

@pftjill - there are a lot of 24hr locations in the metro area, but not in the heart of downtown. Since I take the train to work, I'd prefer a location within walking distance of my office.

I went downstairs and talked to the people at the CAC and as it turns out the membership is $75 a month ($25 less than I was thinking). Add the $25 reimbursement from my company, and that brings it to $50/month. I think I can definitely manage that...

They also have a 2-week trial, so I'm definitely going to take advantage of it. I'll go as much as I can in the next two weeks and see if I like it!