Do you have to join a gym?

You can get a good workout at home, but whether your home-exercise products deliver on their promises for better heart health or a lean, buff physique relies first and foremost on your commitment to your training program.

Beyond that, joining a gym offers several advantages. Here’s how to evaluate a club to find one that best suits your needs.

The most obvious advantages to joining a gym are being able to choose from a variety of cardio activities and an extensive line of machines and free-weight equipment.

You’ll usually feel a sense of camaraderie and enhanced motivation from working along with other bodybuilders toward your shared goals.

Choosing the right gym, however, doesn’t mean just signing on the dotted line. If you don’t feel comfortable or safe at the facility, if it doesn’t offer the amenities you need, if it’s too crowded or simply too far away, you probably won’t go.

To avoid frustration later, consider the following when making your choice. First, make a list of facilities near your home or work and find out if these are hardcore bodybuilding gyms or full-service health clubs.

Call ahead and ask for a tour of your top choice (leave your checkbook and credit cards at home), and while you’re there, check out its selection and number of cardio and weight machines.

Do they have barbells with lots of weight plates and dumbbells in a variety of increments? Can you get through your workout without waiting in line for every piece of equipment? The equipment should work well, dumbbells tightened and cables smooth and rust-free.

Beyond that, do the gym members seem like people you want to spend time with? How do you feel about the size of the place? Is it affordable? Check out the cleanliness of the locker room, bathrooms and shower area.

The gym personnel should be friendly and helpful, but it also makes a difference if they have fitness backgrounds and certifications — instead of being just salespeople.

Most clubs will allow you at least 1-2 free visits; take advantage of these before you decide if this is the gym for you, or buy a week’s pass. Last, avoid signing up for more than one year, just in case you outgrow the place. [source: Kristina Haar, CPT]