Bally Total Fitness places special emphasis on the word “total.” Bally uses a balanced approach to fitness integrating cardio sessions, resistance training, flexibility training and mind/body exercises. In their own words, this approach will give you “total body conditioning.”
Okay, this all sounds great. Let’s look at Bally Total Fitness a little closer. After all, you want value if you’re going to spend money and time at a health club. Keep in mind that you will largely determine whether you reach your fitness goals.
What does Bally offer you:
1. Fitness for everyone. The clubs provide a variety of options so no one feels left out. There is a wide selection of high-tech equipment, group exercise classes and experienced personal trainers. They stress that they always maintain a non-intimidating and fun atmosphere for members. This is very important if you’re new to the fitness scene or you are trying to start exercising again.
Bally states that they have a nationwide network of clubs. You will need to check to see if your area has a club. I live in the Austin, Texas area and there are currently no Ballys club in this area.
And, I like this quote from Bally, “Ultimately it’s the activities you embrace every day that make the real difference in your health and fitness. That’s why our end goal is to help you help yourself with the knowledge, energy and motivation you need to lead a healthy and active lifestyle.”
Remember I said that you will largely determine whether you reach your fitness goals!
2. The physical atmosphere at Ballys is what you would be looking for in a health club. There’s spacious gym floors allowing you to workout without feeling rushed or crowded. There’s also great sound, video and lighting in the clubs.
Ballys is concerned about your safety when at the club. Every facility is staffed with helpful personnel, equipment use guidelines and charts, germ-killing sanitary stations and numerous water fountains to keep you hydrated.
3. How much do you have to invest to get your membership? There’s plenty of options for every budget.
a. There are no long-term commitments. Author’s note: Always look for this option!
b. Easy Monthly Payment Membership:
--Pay as you go, with no long-term commitment
--When you join, you pay your first and last month’s payment, plus applicable fees and taxes
--They will automatically charge your credit card each month, for as long as you remain a member
c. Membership Option for the Best Overall Value
--Paid-in-Full Membership - Save more when you pay in full at the time of purchase
--No enrollment fee or monthly payments
d. Club Access Choices:
In addition to picking your payment option, you can also decide what level of access is right for you.
--National Access Memberships allow unlimited use of their nationwide network. Take advantage of their extensive club network and ensure you can keep working toward achieving your fitness goals when you travel.
--Local Access Memberships let you work out at any club in your area. This option is great for people who want lots of places to work out near home, work, school, or friends.
--One Club Access Memberships are restricted to a single club. These are the least expensive plans and ensure you don’t pay for flexibility you don’t need.
e. Friends & Family Plans
Add friends or family members to your plan for a low monthly fee. Each person will receive the same access as regular members, at a lower cost.
f. Corporate Memberships are Available
Studies show that fit employees have higher job satisfaction, lower turnover, and fewer medical bills. Your employer may have an agreement with Bally.
g. There is an option for a Free 7-Day Guest Pass. I would recommend this pass. You will know after 7 days whether this health club is right for you.
Visit Bally Total Fitness in your area. This is the best way to get a feel for any health club. You can also visit online at www.ballyfitness.com
Mark Dilworth, BA, PES, CPT is a Certified Personal Trainer and former NCAA Division I athlete. Mark is the owner of My Fitness Hut, Her Fitness Hut, Sports Fitness Hut and My Nutrition Hut. Mark’s Fat Blaster Athletic Training System has been proven to give his clients the fit, sculpted and athletic-type bodies they want. Visit Mark’s main site:
Your Fitness University http://yourfitnessuniversity.com
Edited by Jody Smith