Physical Fitness, Fiscal Fitness
A new year is around the corner and possibly a new version of you too, or at least that’s what many people believe as the days on the calendar of 2022 peel away. The idea of becoming a fitter version of yourself is a common thing that springs to mind, and the fitness industry is waiting and ready to be a part of it. But choosing the right fitness professionals to assist in that goal is incredibly important, because getting hurt while working out can cause not only physical problems, but psychological ones, too. That’s why choosing the right type of fitness or trainer needs to be a bigger decision than because it’s January, says fitness professional Angela Yong, who owns FIT Columbia.
“There’s not a governing body making sure that whoever is certified stays certified with continuing education credits (CEUs),” says Yong. And since that is the case, it is on each person to make sure they choose a trainer or fitness class or fitness professional that they feel has their client’s best interests at heart by taking advantage of try-before-you-buy classes or one-day passes. “Almost everyone will offer a one-time experience for you to try it out,” Yong offers. “If it doesn’t feel right, it isn’t right for you.”
Yong cautions people to be thorough and honest with themselves before joining subscription-based gyms, where membership is auto-drafted and consumers end up paying whether they go to the gym or not. An alternative to a big box gym is local studios with fitness classes that are purchased by session packages, such as 10 classes for a specific amount of money. This can allow the consumer to enjoy a multitude of types of fitness without a long-term and hassle-filled commitment to get out of later. Many area yoga studios, boxing studios, barre classes, dance classes, and more offer this type of session-based option, where it is easy to make a smaller financial commitment upfront. While this may not seem like the cheapest option initially, it can be a better financial choice long-term, while deciding how fitness goals fit into one’s life.
The most important thing to consider when choosing fitness in the new year is to consider who you are as a person, Yong stresses. “Make a list of what you need and value, and don’t look for a bargain, look for what suits your needs,” she says. “Know what you need, because signing up for something doesn’t mean you’re going to follow through.” Some people need gyms that stay open past 9 p.m., while others prefer the accountability that comes from being expected to show up to an appointment to meet a trainer, and some people need to follow preset programming.
Don’t let fear, stress, and a tidal wave of emotions over 2023 dictate fitness and financial choices. Take time and thoughtful consideration before making a commitment to a fitness professional — whether it’s a personal trainer or a group fitness instructor — who is committed to the overall health and well-being of their clients enough to have an up-to-date certification in their area of fitness expertise. The only way to move forward with fitness is with a clear mind and a wallet that isn’t being emptied out monthly without any rewards that come from the endorphin boost of healthy physical fitness.
To find out more about FIT Columbia, visit fitcolumbia.com.