The Buffalo News, N.Y., Discount Diva column [The Buffalo News, N.Y.]

Jan. 09--I joined a gym once. Like most people, I went for a few weeks, used the treadmill, then stopped going. Then I ate several pints of Ben&Jerry's to drown the guilt of having wasted so much money.

I have more luck with exercise DVDs and playing Wii games at home. But if you're going to take a shot at a healthier lifestyle, more power to you!

As you're choosing a gym, here are a few things to keep in mind to make sure you're getting the best value for your dollar.

?¢Many gyms offer short-term, three-month trial memberships for $99 or less --especially during this time of year. Before signing on for the long term, see if you can keep up the routine for that three-month stint.

--But don't join based on price alone. The most important factor is whether the gym you're considering fits your lifestyle. You may get a better rate at a gym several towns over, but the added hassle of travel may make it more difficult to actually get there and get your money's worth. There is the extra gas mileage to consider, too.

--Consider what time of day you'll work out. There's no sense joining the gym around the corner from your house if you plan to work out on your lunch hour. Pick a location as close as possible to wherever you'll be at the time. If you plan on working out in the wee hours before work or late at night, be sure your gym accommodates those hours.

?¢What do you want out of your workout? You may not need to pay the higher rates for a gym with a pool and sauna if you rarely plan on swimming.

Do you plan on taking a lot of classes with instructors, such as yoga? If so, check to be sure the gym doesn't charge extra for them. You might be better off joining something like a yoga studio instead.

?¢How much do you understand about nutrition and fitness? Will you know how to use the gym equipment in the most effective ways? If you could benefit from personal, one-on-one training, you might be surprised to find that some independent personal trainers actually cost less than training sessions at a gym, once dues are added.

--Check your associations for discounts. Some gyms might offer military, senior or student discounts. Certain facilities offer price breaks to town residents, such as the Aquatic Center in the Town of Tonawanda.

--Ask your health insurance company what it offers. Independent Health offers participants in its Flex Fit plan a $250 debit card that can be used toward the cost of gym memberships. Univera's Silver&Fit plan is included in every one of its Medicare Advantage plans, which gets members low-cost memberships to participating health clubs.

[email protected] or call MoneySmart at 849-4612. Follow the Diva at www.Facebook.com/DiscountDiva

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