Thinking about joining a gym? Congratulations! You are about to take an important toward better securing your long-term health. However, selecting the right fitness center can be daunting.

Gyms come in all shapes and sizes. Some are bare-bones operations that focus on attracting hard-core weightlifters. At the other end are family facilities such as the YMCA that offer a fitness center in addition to many other amenities. In between are scores of fitness chains that target adults of all ages.

If you live in a medium-sized or larger city, you probably have several options to consider when choosing a gym. By asking yourself five important questions, you should be able to find the facility that is right for you.

• Where is it located, and when is it open? Choose a gym located close to your home or workplace. Some gyms are stand-alone entities, and others are part of franchises that may have several branches in town available to all members. Either way, you are far more likely to stick to your workout regimen if you don't have to drive across town to get to the gym.
  
  Also, consider the facility's hours of operation. Some gyms are open 24/7, but others offer more limited hours, especially on weekends. Choose a gym with a schedule that matches yours.
  
  
• How much does it cost, and what are the terms? Gym membership cost is typically related to amenities. A gym that offers nothing but free weights probably has lower fees than one with a pool, sauna, and racquetball and basketball courts. So, consider your needs -- present and future -- as well as your budget when factoring cost.
  
  Membership plans differ from facility to facility. Like landlords, some gyms offer month-to-month contracts, but others expect you to commit to at least a year of membership.
  
  It is important to read the fine print here. Is there a sign-up fee? Will you have to pay a penalty if you cancel the membership? Do you pay monthly, or on some other timetable? Don’t rush into signing anything, and simply walk away if the terms make you uncomfortable in any way.
  
  
• What equipment is available? Cardio and strength-training equipment is available in a seemingly endless variety of options. Look over the equipment at your prospective gym, and make sure it's clean and well maintained. Don't be afraid to ask about both the cardio and strength-training machines. Try them out, or ask someone to demonstrate how they work.
  
  Remember that gyms can be busy places, so make sure the facility has enough equipment to go around. For example, 10 elliptical machines are better than five if gym is often crowded. Also, ask about time limits when using machines. Some busy facilities limit machine use to 30 minutes, which may be too restrictive if you like to walk on a treadmill for 45 minutes.
  
  
• What classes are offered? Before signing on the dotted line, ask to see a schedule of the classes the gym offers. It makes no sense to belong to a gym that doesn't offer your spin class at a time when you can attend. In many cases, these classes may only be available to those who pay an extra fee. So, check the charges and whether class sizes are limited.
  
  Some facilities also offer fitness classes specifically designed for women who are expecting. If you are pregnant or may be in the near future, you'll want to ask if the gym offers special classes or employs staff with expertise in this area.
  
  
• What is the quality of the staff and the facility? A gym is only as good as the people who work there. When you visit, take note of the staff's attentiveness and demeanor. Ask about whether fitness experts are available. Does the facility offer personal training and nutrition services? If so, what certifications have these specialists earned? Is on-site childcare staffing available?
  
  Also note the building's cleanliness and amenities. Are the locker rooms and showers kept clean? Are TVs and personal music stations available in the cardio area?
  
  After you have asked these questions, be sure to make any other inquiries that are important to you. No question is too trivial. For example, some people couldn't care less if their gym fails to offer towel service; for others, it's a deal-breaker.