By Jillian Melnyk

Developing an exercise plan can seem overwhelming, but if you find a facility that fits your needs, you will be more likely to stick to an exercise plan.

Eight things to consider when looking for a fitness facility:

1. Location: If a fitness center is close by, you will be more likely to develop and stick to an exercise routine. "If a facility isn't within 12 minutes of your home or work, don't join," says Robert Bovee, senior fitness director at PHA Health, Wellness and Fitness Centers. If it is located too far away, you may not be motivated to go often. Make a list of facilities in your area, and then schedule times to visit and tour. "Visit two or three health clubs before you decide to join," adds Bovee.

2. Hours: Make sure the hours and days that the facility is open fits your schedule. If you plan to exercise in the morning, make sure they are open early. On the contrary, if you want your workout time to be at 8 P.M., a facility that closes at 9 P.M. may not work for you. Try to schedule a visit during times you plan to exercise so you can see how the facility looks during the hours you will be regularly attending.

3. Child Care and Family Options: Sometimes getting away to exercise may be easier said than done. If you have a family, you may want to look into a facility that offers programs or child care to accommodate all of your family's members. Get in shape together - look into a family-friendly facility, such as the YMCA, where your whole family can take advantage of wide varieties of programs for all ages.
What to ask:
• Do you have programs for young children? Teens?
• Are the parts of your facility that have an age limit? Such as cardio equipment.
• Is there a charge for childcare?
• What hours are childcare offered?
• Do you offer a special package or family membership?

4. Machines and Equipment: Depending on what you hope to achieve, you will be looking for different equipment. "What is truly important in losing weight is to look at body composition methods and their free weight programs," says Robyn Chase, owner of Iron Butterfly Health Club in Victor. "Free weights are critical to any women's fitness program and losing weight. Muscle burns more calories and makes your cardio workouts more effective. Losing weight is a balance of proper nutrition, cardio workouts, and adequate muscle mass." Also, check out the quality and age of the equipment, it is often a good indicator of how well the facility is maintained. "A complete line of state of the art fitness equipment is the main tool a fitness facility must have available in order to design an effective and safe program," says Robert Bovee.

What to notice:
• Do the machines seem overly busy? Make sure the gym offers enough of the "popular" exercise machines.

What to ask:
• What kind of equipment do you have?
• Is there a time limit on cardio equipment?

5. Cost: Cost can be a big factor in joining a fitness center, and the price tag can be intimidating. That's why it is important to find a facility that perfectly meets your needs. Ask about sign up fees and what kind of extras are provided, versus you pay for - such as towel service, lockers, childcare and classes. Many facilities offer a few visits or weeks membership for free so you can try before you buy. Take advantage of this! "Trying out a facility before you join is the best way to see if it is where you want to exercise," says Robert Bovee. "Exercising during the time you would normally workout will give you a chance to see if you will be comfortable."

6. Classes and Group Programs: Classes can be a great way to get into shape while having fun. "Classes help you to stick to your exercise plan because they provide structure, guidance, and a group energy," says Robyn Chase. Some facilities offer a wide variety of classes – everything from spinning or dance to yoga and Pilates. Ask if you can try out a sample class or drop in to watch. Look for a qualified instructor who motivates the group in a helpful, friendly and upbeat manner.

What to ask:
• Are classes free with membership or do they cost extra?
• Do you have to register, or can you just drop in for class?
• What are the instructor's qualifications?

6. Extras: Many larger facilities offer additional features, such as racquetball or tennis courts, indoor running tracks, basketball courts, swimming pools, steam rooms, saunas, or whirl pools. Make a list of features and amenities that you are looking for in a facility and bring it with you when you tour so you can check to see if what they offer is right for you.

7. Staff: "A full-service fitness facility knows that overall wellness means more than just exercise," says Robert Bovee. "The staff should be able to provide information about nutrition, stress management, and medical references from other professionals that can help you." Some facilities may even have rehabilitation specialists, massage therapists, chiropractors and nutritionists on site. Personal trainers can work with you to develop a specially tailored exercise plan. A trainer should be well qualified, so be sure to ask about their certifications. When visiting, check to see if the staff is readily available to answer questions or help with any problems.

8. Atmosphere: Above all, make sure that you are comfortable in the exercise environment. Are trainers and staff available to help you with any problems or concerns? Look for a facility that is user friendly, with a warm and welcoming staff. If you are more comfortable exercising around women, you may want to consider choosing a "woman only gym" such as Curves or Rochester Athletic Club for Women. Many facilities, such as P.H.A. Health, Wellness and Fitness Centers and Iron Butterfly Health Club, also offer "women only" sections and programs.

Jillian Melnyk is a staff writer for Rochester Woman Magazine.