Gyms are rooms equipped for indoor sports. http://www.dictionary.reference.com/browse/gymnasium Often, they are referred to as "health clubs," and include exercise equipment in addition to areas for individual or organized athletics. Common offerings are free weights, resistance equipment, cardiovascular machines, and aerobics.
The father of modern gymnasiums is Friedrich Ludwig Jahn, who opened the first open-air gymnasium in Berlin in 1811. http://www.gymmedia.com/jahm/e_index.html He conceived of a place where people could get in shape and improve morale, inventing the parallel bars, rings, balance beam, pommel horse, and horizontal bar.http://www.answers.com/topic/friedrich-ludwig-jahn These days most gyms appear far different than in Jahn's time. There are many versions of the same apparatus, perhaps to accomodate a growing population. Rather than be a "one stop shop," many gyms now offer daycare, sauna, and refreshments in addition to aiding in fitness.
What to Look For in a Gym
- Does the layout of the gym lend itself to a specific workout?
- Are there other amenities that it offers? A juice bar, day care?
- Hours of operation: is the gym open weekends? Is it open late? http://www.shapefit.com/gym-tips.html
- Location: is the commute realistic?
- If possible, a member's experience. Do they enjoy working out there? http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/3687868
- Are there numerous selections of the same apparatus? Even at peak hours? http://msnbc.msn.com/id/3687868
- How does the staff respond initially? Are they welcoming?
- Cleanliness. Do the locker rooms look presentable?
- Are locks provided? Is the transition from gym to car well-lit? www.msnbc.msn.com/id/3687868
- Staff credentialing. Does the staff show proof of an appropriate education? www.msnbc.msn.com/id/3687868
- Do the trainers appear fit and professional? http://www.shapefit.com/gym-tips.html
- Is the equipment up-to-date and well maintained?
- Does the gym offer a trial run?
Training in 2010
As training changes with advances in technology and what is trending, so do gyms. Many gyms now offer training in addition to weights, cardio, or resistance equipment. Some of these options include spinning, circuit training, dance classes such as hip-hop or Zumba, kickboxing, and water aerobics. Some memberships will include access to these classes and some do not. http://www.exerciseabout.com/od/healthinjuries/tp/fitnesstrends2010.htm At the same time, combining different disciplines into a single workout appears to be on the rise. Yoga and speed cycling, called "Cy-Yo," is now offered at some Gold's Gyms across the nation. http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=59844 New concepts for exercise continue to emerge such as "Exergaming," which combines interactive video games with a real workout. Specialty fitness classes are predicted to play a role in 2010 and beyond. http://www.acefitness.org/article/2843
The economy also plays a role in training. Even though many gyms are packed with the latest high-tech equipment, there is also evidence to support a back-to-basics movement. http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=59844 In a tighter economy, consumers tend to scale back on personal training and instead opt for working out at home or taking advantage of group training. www.acefitness.org/article/2843 Calisthenics such as push-ups, sit-ups, and jumping jacks can be done in any location as can working out in a group.
Touring a Gym
This video conducts a tour of a Gold's Gym in Rainbow City, Alabama. Each workout area has a different focus. Our host takes us around the resistance equipment, free weights, the Cardio Theater, powerlifting room, ladies room, and the steam room/sauna. Access to group exercise classes such as yoga and pilates is included in the membership.
References
Fast Facts
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Origin of "gym"
Gym is derived from the Greek word "gumnazo," or "exercise," and "gumnos," which means "naked or loin-clothed." "Gymnasia" referred to public sports venues.
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Early gyms in the US
The first gym to appear in the United States was at Harvard University in 1820.
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Starting out in the gym
It's recommended to stretch before and after, begin with low weights vs. a high number of repetitions, and to include some cardio a few times a week.
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Membership
Many gyms now offer access to other locations. A contract should state what is covered and what is not.
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Storing Valuables
Locker rooms are not always secure. Some gym goers opt to keep valuables on their person, back at home, or locked securely in compartments inside their vehicle. There may be a locked storage area at the front desk where staff is present.
