Testing Out Fitness Clubs

For my health situation, I need to do at least 30 minutes of cardio exercise 6 days a week. I am limited to exercising in temperatures above the 20s, which reduces outdoor opportunities in the winter. So I have been trying out some of the local (within a couple miles) fitness centers. Most of the places offer a free trial membership ranging from 5 days to a month and I have been taking advantage of the offers.

There are three clubs within a two mile radius of my house.  My company fitness center is a little over three miles away.
Here is my assessement in the order tried:

Club #1. This is a facility at the company from which I retired.  It is the farthest away.  I didn't use it since I had previously belonged to it.   Members are mostly employees are retirees.  Free classes.  Only open during weekdays.  Cost $22/month.

Club #2.  Closest.  Right by our usual grocery store. Younger clientele.  Free classes offered.  Pool.  Cost is $360/year.

Club #3.   Next closest.  Family clientele.  Greatest number of free offerings, including tennis at additional court rental cost.  Pool.     Cost is an initiation fee plus $100-$250 per month depending on single or family membership.  Can suspend monthly fees temporarily during summer months.

Club #4.  Second farthest.  Nearby shopping.  Older clientele.  Classes are additional cost. Cost is xx/month and can suspend during summer months.  Cost is $300/year. 

In clubs #3 and # 4, the cardio machines all have individual TV monitors.  I enjoyed using these since I could watch the show of my choosing.

Overall, I'm still not a fan of using exercise machines.  I'd rather be outside playing a sport.  Since the weather is getting warmer, I think I will wait winter 2013 to decide whether and which club to join.

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This is not financial or health advice. Please consult a professional advisor.

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