You've thought about it for a long time and have decided that you're ready to make the commitment. But before you jump in too soon and find yourself stuck in a yearlong contract, there are a few things you need to consider before joining a gym.

Gyms come in all sizes and price ranges, just like everything else. Choosing the right gym for you is similar to choosing a car; there are Cadillac gyms that offer everything but the kitchen sink, and there are Ford gyms that offer the basics. It is up to you to decide what options you want and can afford before signing on the dotted line.

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Location: Is it close to where you live? Is it on your way home from work? If it's not easily accessible, then it can be very tempting to keep on driving and skip the workout. Will you feel safe coming and going at this location by yourself even at odd hours of the day? What are the safety precautions the gym has in place in case an emergency does arise?

Price: If the gym you are considering offers lots of services that you will never use, such as tanning beds, free weights and handball courts at a premium price, you may want to shop around to see if there is a gym that offers just what you are looking for at a price that better fits your budget.