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Work Out for Less
Date: February 16, 2007
Author: David Smidt, SeniorDiscounts.com

Many of us have probably made the same New Year’s
resolution as a good portion of the United States; to get in shape. This is the time of year that
sticking to that resolution can be difficult, so here are some added reasons to continue that
workout.

While it’s difficult to put a cost on your health,
gym and sport club memberships and monthly dues can certainly add up. Luckily, there are lots of discounts
out there for older adults who are looking to get in shape.

Gyms and sports clubs are among the many businesses
which offer senior discounts and they can be found at many different health facilities nationwide. Some
of the national chains may offer senior discounts, but you will most likely find better deals at local
health clubs. Some of the best places to locate senior discounts are at the facilities operated by your
local parks and recreation departments or at the YMCA.

National health clubs, like Bally’s Total Fitness and
Gold’s Gym, typically franchise their locations. They have told us that there are no universal senior
discounts, but certain locations may provide membership incentives for seniors. Their advice is to contact
your local branch and inquire about any available senior programs.

Local clubs and exercise facilities are competing with
the larger companies for customers, which can lead to larger discounts for you. While these facilities
may not have the same equipment as the nation chains, they may prove to be less crowded and more personable.
Check many of the local exercise classes, like jazzercise, tae bo, and dance classes, as they will likely
have discounts for older adults.

Almost all parks and recreation facilities have discounts
for seniors. Senior discounts tend to be the greatest at these facilities, but the age requirements will
probably be higher than those of the privately owned facilities.

Specifically, most discounts at the privately owned
facilities will begin at age 55, while the parks and recreation facilities typically begin around 62.
The amount of a discount can vary dramatically depending on the facility and its location. Some gyms and
spas provide discounts off initiation fees, while others give a discount from their monthly dues. Some
locations even provide discounts on both initiation fees and monthly dues.

Clubs have also started programs for the mature market.
These programs can include personal training sessions, classes and nutritional guides to help you get in
shape. While researching gyms and sports clubs, be sure to inquire about these additional programs and ask
them what they do to make their facility more accommodating for you.

If you can’t find a particular gym on the SeniorDiscounts’
web site, look for the particular gym on the Internet. Many don’t necessarily post their senior rates, as
they would like to try to sell their membership in person. If this is the case, call ahead of time and ask
if they have any specials for older adults. To search for gym and sport club discounts in your area, go to
the Discount Search Form located on our web site and look in the Sports and Recreation category. Click here.

© SeniorDiscounts

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