A modern gym is a place that houses exercise equipment for the purpose of physical exercise. In addition to exercise equipment, including bars and weights, a modern gym has many more facilities available to its members.
Most gyms have a main training area. This area consists primarily of dumbbells and free weights, as well as exercise machines. The area also often includes mirrors so that exercisers can monitor and maintain correct posture during their workout.
A cardio area or cardio theater is also quite common in modern gyms. This area includes many types of cardiovascular equipment such as rowing machines, elliptical machines, stationary bikes, and treadmills. They also include a series of audiovisual screens to keep users entertained during cario training sessions.
The gym can also offer group exercise classes. They are usually conducted by qualified fitness instructors and include classes based on aerobics, cycling, high-intensity training, boxing, yoga, Pilates, and strength training. Gyms with swimming pools also offer aqua aerobics classes.
Personal training is usually available at most modern gyms. Personal trainers are helpful for consultation and advice on training, fitness, nutrition, and health. They can design a personalized exercise routine that includes a nutrition plan to help clients achieve their goals. They can even help monitor and train members. However, access to trainers usually comes with an additional hourly fee.
Sports facilities are also available in some gyms. Swimming pools, boxing arenas, and squash courts are sometimes available. In some cases, there are additional fees to use these areas.
Newer gyms typically include cafeterias, health stores, restaurants, childcare centers, cafes, and member lounges. It is not uncommon for them to have a steam shower, sauna or wellness areas. However, there are usually additional charges for using these additional facilities.
Since modern gyms offer so many facilities and services, the cost of a membership varies greatly between gyms. Costs can be modified by purchasing higher level memberships such as a Founders Club or a Lifetime Membership. These types of memberships have a higher initial cost but a much lower monthly fee. These are likely to be beneficial to those who use the gym frequently and plan to maintain their membership for years to come.