The 46-year-old software manager in Bergen County, N.J., swears she's a true believer in the benefits of a good workout and did all the right things to find the right gym.

"I learned early on that the only way I can function well on the job and at home is to get in three or four sessions a week at a gym," she says. "Vigorous exercise calms me down and makes my body and mind feel renewed."

Physical fitness, which includes healthy eating and exercise, is now recognized as a key element in reducing the risk of major health problems, such as heart attacks, strokes, diabetes and certain cancers. It may even help you stay mentally alert as you age. 

And like the New Jersey woman's routine, your healthy living may include working out at a gym, where you like the social aspect and the way it helps you adhere to a routine. You may also enjoy the expert coaching and equipment.

Scientists at the University of Western Australia found that women who exercised at a gym were four times more likely to stick with their routine than were those who worked out at home.

Simply put, you just may find that membership at a gym is a great fitness motivator.

Fitting your personality, lifestyle 

If you decide to seek a gym, find one that fits your personality and lifestyle. Start by asking friends and family where they work out. Put together a list of facilities and tour each one.

Some of them may offer free day passes, so you can work out on a particular day and case out the ambience, staff, equipment, people and other factors you find important in a workout facility.

According to Oxford Health, a health insurance plan, when making your choice, consider the following:

•  Convenience. An inconvenient location and operating hours may discourage you from going to the gym regularly.

•  Equipment and classes. A good gym should offer a wide variety of exercise machines, with enough of the popular ones to reduce long waits. But is the equipment in good working order and are instructions for proper use clearly posted?

If you like fitness classes, check times, offerings and any additional fees.

•  Staff. Is a well-qualified, supportive and courteous staff available to help you? If you want a personal trainer, ask about rates.

•  Fees. First, find out if a gym membership fits into your family budget. Then - before you sign anything - review the contract carefully. Is there an initial sign-up fee? How long is the commitment? Is there an early-cancellation penalty? Are you eligible for any discounts through your health plan at work or your employer?

'Matter of lifestyle' 

The software engineer in New Jersey says she followed all the advice and eventually found a great gym five minutes from her house - and they're not going to get rid of her anytime soon.

"I like to mix it up, doing both free weights and cardiovascular conditioning," she says. "Keeping my weight down and body tuned up are benefits, of course, but it's the psychological effects I really appreciate. Fitness is a matter of lifestyle for me and I don't foresee easing up ever."

Nubella News, a division of Marketing Technology Solutions, Inc., offers content intended for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We encourage our readers to seek prompt medical care for health issues and consult their physicians before starting a new diet, fitness regimen, or medical treatment.