Location: You need a gym that’s convenient to get to. If it takes too long to get to, you’re less likely to use it as often as you should (ideally 3 times a week). So consider one within walking distance (cuts out the problems of public transport delays or traffic jams), or if you’re driving there, check the ease (and cost) of parking. One near home or work would be ideal, depending on the days and times you wish to train.

Beware, just because a gym is geographically quite near you, doesn’t necessarily mean it’s convenient. So make sure you do the journey at the time you plan to use the gym and go get an accurate idea of journey times.

Equipment: The key question you need to ask yourself is, “what are my goals?”. Then choose a gym whose equipment matches your goals. So if you’re after muscle growth, choose a gym with ample free weights (dumbbells and barbells, cable crossovers, benches with both flat and incline options, and squat racks). And if yoga and stretching are your things, you need a gym with a yoga studio and plenty of space for stretching.

Showers & Changing Rooms: This is where most gyms let themselves down badly. The changing rooms are often cramped, with small/narrow lockers which are a struggle to get all your stuff into. And always ask for a free trial session, so you experience the changing area and showers rather than just a glance around. Try before you buy, this gives you a much better chance of spotting problems. As the best gyms on Sunshine Coast, we have the facilities like showers and changing rooms. So as you can see, there are many things to consider. The best starting point is to ask what your top fitness goals are, and then choose a gym that will best help you reach your goals, in a clean and friendly, and energizing atmosphere, and convenient to get to. In short, choose a gym that’s right for you.