Baby Boomer resolution - get to the gym

Baby Boomers who want to take a more active role in their health are likely to consider joining a health club as part of their New Year's resolutions.

We examined here recently the AARP survey that showed how Baby Boomers are trying to lessen the economic impact of their health by being more proactive about exercise. Better health equals less medical expense.

There is a lot to consider when looking at a health club and the new year is typically when new members flock to clubs with the best of intentions.

Here, gleaned from a variety of sources, are some questions to ask and things to consider:

• Take a tour. Yes, the tour is a sales spiel, but it's your opportunity to get a good look
• Is the club, particularly the locker rooms, clean and well maintained?
• How noisy is the club? If there is music piped in throughout the club, for instance, is it distractingly loud? Do you imagine having to crank up your iPod in order to hear your music above the club's music?
• Are there ample cardio machines ... any waiting for the treadmills or stationary bikes or cross-trainers? Does it look like the machines are maintained ... how many are out of order? Is there someone on the staff who maintains the equipment?
• Does the weight room have both free weights and weight machines such as Nautilas? Are there enough so that people aren't waiting too long?
• Does the club offer personal trainers? What are their rates? Is there a discount for, say, 10 sessions?
• Are the hours of operation convenient to your schedule?
• Is there a deal for joining -- waiving the joining fee, the first month free?
• Check to see if you can have a trial membership ... a pass for two or three visits before joining to get a hands-on feel for the place.
• Do you feel comfortable? In order to get the most from your membership you'll want to visit frequently, so the comfort level is important.
• Are there classes, such as yoga or group cycling (Spinning) or aerobics? Is there an additional charge?

Remember that every amenity comes at a price that's built into the monthly membership. So, if the health club has tanning beds, for example, decide if that's something you intend to use because you'll be paying for it.