While you can get fit for free by running in the park or following along with workout videos on YouTube, it's often worth paying for a gym membership. With a gym membership, you obviously get access to a lot of fitness equipment, but that's just the tip of the iceberg. Here are some ways to get more out of your gym membership and make it even more worthwhile.

1. Attend classes.

If all you're doing in the gym is working out on a treadmill or using a couple of weight machines, you're missing out! Most gyms offer at least a few different classes each day. Attending classes is a good way to increase your motivation, learn about new approaches to fitness, and have fun while working out. If you attend just one, 1-hour class per week, that's four hours of instruction and camaraderie you're getting for the price of your gym membership. 

2. Use the showers and locker rooms.

If you are the kind of person who pulls up in your car, works out, and then heads straight back to your car, you may want to consider changing your approach. Take advantage of the locker rooms and showers. Store your items in a locker so you can come to the gym straight from work or a gathering with friends. Shower after your workout so you can get on with your day, rather than having to go home and shower. In these ways, the gym's amenities make your life more convenient, which makes your gym membership worthwhile.

3. Talk to people.

Yes, this one is as simple as it sounds. You're paying to go to the gym, so why not take advantage of this space for its social opportunities. Don't bother people who look like they're "in the zone" with their headphones on, but do strike up conversations by the water fountain, in the locker room, or while waiting for classes. If you make just one new friend at the gym, that membership will have been worth it! You and your new buddy can also work out together and support one another.

Joining a gym can be a really great experience, and it's about more than just using the gym equipment. If you attend classes, talk to people, and take advantage of the gym's amenities, you'll have a good experience and feel that you got your money's worth when paying for the membership.

For more information about gym memberships, contact a local gym.