If your on-base gym is too crowded, too inconvenient, or just plain not enough of what you're looking for, it might be time to consider your off-base options. Of course, reservists, recruiters and others far from big installations often have to find their own way regardless. Or maybe you're just looking for a breath of fresh air, and a fresh start on those flagging New Year's fitness goals (before that next PT test). Whatever your situation, if you're looking to shift your workout fire outside the wire, here are some tips from money-saving expert Andrea Woroch in Bakersfield, California:
Max out trials
Finding the right gym fit is key. A great way to check out classes, instructors or an overall environment is to take advantage of freebies. Woroch said most gyms offer three free days to a free week. Salespeople may try to entice during trial periods with limited-time discounts, but don't bite if it doesn't feel right. Move on to another gym until you find the right one.
"You want to test out the equipment, go at the time that you typically think will fit into your schedule, whether it's after work, at lunch. See what the crowds are like," she said.
Try haggling
Think of your gym membership like buying a car, Woroch said. Salespeople have quotas, and that puts you in the driver's seat. Nothing is set in stone, she said. Perhaps you can score a lower monthly rate or have the initiation fee waived. Ask for the first month free, more guest passes, extra personal training sessions or complimentary child care.
"There's always wiggle room," she said.
Punch passes
Is there a nagging voice in your head declaring: "You'll never keep it up!" You might get a lower monthly rate when committing to a two-year contract, but you'll pay over time if you don't go. A punch pass may be a wise choice, Woroch said. She cited a recent study that found people who choose a contract with a monthly fee over a 10-visit pass paid $600 more a year. If you know you won't go every day or find that you prefer outdoor activities instead, paying per visit could also mean avoiding early termination fees down the line.
"Then you're not bound to a contract or you can't go for a week or two weeks because you're traveling for work, you won't lose the money," Woroch said.
Who is family?
Family membership deals abound, but such deals aren't always limited to actual family, Woroch said. Joining might be more fun with friends, but trust comes into play in terms of payment. Pick one person to make the monthly payment and come up with a reimbursement plan. That could mean each person sends the designee a check, transfers money via Paypal or pays in one lump sum for the year. Make sure to work it out ahead of time.
"More and more gyms are just looking for numbers at this point," Woroch said. "They've loosened up on who your people are."
Coupons, warehouse clubs and daily deals
Look around. Sites such as Groupon and LivingSocial often offer deep discounts up to 70 percent on local gym memberships and personal training. Warehouse clubs also offer deals, but you usually have to take a one- or two-year membership for those. CouponSherpa.com offers coupons and free passes for health clubs. Monthly flexibility will allow you to jump around from gym to studio to boot camp until you find what you're looking for, Woroch said.
"This is a good way to leave room to re-evaluate," Woroch said. "You can save a little for three or four months before signing a contract."
