Exercising Caution When Weighing Benefits of a Health Club

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By Karen Dera

     Turkeys aren’t the only creatures stuffed over the year-end holidays. As much a part of the seasonal traditions as family gatherings and sagging dining tables are packing on extra pounds, then fretting about taking them off. 
     But before you run to a health club to shed pounds, be sure you’ll be paying for lightening yourself, not just your wallet. Be certain you really want to commit to a contract or pay extra for certain amenities. Know what you want from a gym or health club, then shop around and compare fees and dues. 
     As with their clientele, gyms and clubs come in all sizes and shapes. They range from the basic workout machines, free weights and little else to country club/resort-like spa settings that offer weight-management programs, yoga and Pilates studios, sports-performance training and massage rooms.
     The Sacramento region, as with most metro markets, suffers no shortage of temples for trimming accumulated tonnage. The Sacramento telephone book’s Yellow Pages alone lists four pages of health club ads, as well as separate listings for exercise equipment, exercise and physical fitness programs and weight-control services. 
     News of government reports and institutional studies confirming America as an obese society, not to mention warnings about dangers of heart disease, diabetes and other debilitations resulting from obesity, means business is on the upswing for gyms and health clubs.
     If you’re ready to sign up, here’s a basic guide, with tips from the pros for choosing a fitness center that’s right for you and your budget.

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