There is no secret formula to guarantee a healthy life, but eating a balanced diet that prioritizes nutrient-dense, low-calorie foods and getting the recommended amount of exercise each week might be as close as it gets. For a good portion of the population, physical fitness involves visiting a fitness facility.

There are an estimated 205,180 health and fitness clubs worldwide and approximately 185 million gym memberships, according to data from Statista. Around 25 percent of the United States population had a membership to a gym, studio or other fitness facility in 2024, according to a recent survey from the Health & Fitness Association.

Considering the vast array of gyms and fitness facilities available to consumers, finding a place to start or continue one’s fitness journey may require a little leg work. To find the right place, individuals can consider these points when touring locations.

• Identify your needs and wants. First, decide what is most important to you in a facility. Do you want a location that prioritizes group classes? Do you prefer a traditional gym where free weights are more abundant than machines? Are you in need of a facility with early-morning hours or one that has a pool? Make a list of your preferences to narrow down the options.
• Consider convenience. Although a gym three towns over may have all of the bells and whistles you want, consider the likelihood that you’ll travel there often enough when the exercising bug bites you? A facility that is relatively close to home or the office makes it much easier to stay consistent with your workouts.
• Identify fitness goals. Shedding weight is a primary goal for many people. Others may want to build muscle. The former may require a fitness club that offers a mix of cardiovascular exercises and even specialized weight loss programs. Nutrition counseling also might be a feature to look for. For the latter, a facility that features comprehensive weightlifting equipment and offers resistance training classes might be a better fit.
• Seek some expert guidance. If you don’t know where to start getting fit, a gym with personal trainers can be a wise investment.
• Evaluate the look and feel. Visiting various gyms can help you compare apples to apples. Look for things like cleanliness and maintenance in all areas, including locker rooms and workout spaces. Check to see if there is enough equipment to accommodate everyone during your typical workout time. Evaluate the atmosphere and vibe of the gym. You want it to feel comfortable and welcoming.
• Check out the gym schedule. Be sure to see if class schedules or operational hours align with your workout needs.
• Learn the costs of membership. Fitness on Demand says the average cost of a gym membership is $59 per month. Budget gyms can cost as low as $10 per month, while elite or boutique clubs may be as much as $100 monthly. However, the International Health, Racquet & Sportsclub Association says nearly 40 percent of gym members pay less than $25 monthly for membership.

Fitness-minded individuals have different factors to consider when shopping around for fitness facilities.