Work it Out: Fitness & Wellness Centers in Clemmons, NC

Taking the first step to a healthier lifestyle begins with finding the right place to work out, one that has activities and amenities that interest you. It’s pretty simple – the more you like something, the more likely you are to do it. Clemmons, NC offers many fitness and wellness centers to choose from, all focused on helping you make changes that, over time, turn into a new lifestyle.

Work It Out

Fitness & Wellness Centers in Clemmons, NC

BY CAROLYN S. PETERSON

HOW DO I CHOOSE THE RIGHT GYM FOR ME?

Finding a gym can be compared to finding your significant other. You are investing your time, money and energy into a gym, which are the elements you give to a new relationship. You need to be certain you’ve made the best choice for you and your training goals. Online reviews and recommendations from friends are good jumping off points to narrow the field of gyms, but there are a few more things to consider.

When it comes to picking a gym, think like you are picking a house: location, location, location. If you join a gym that isn’t in your normal travel area, out of the way, not convenient, you won’t go. If the gym is close to your house, on the way to and from work, or close enough to go and get back home, you are more likely to make going a habit that you will stick with over time.

Locally, in Clemmons, NC, we have many options, from the Jerry Long Family YMCA, to CrossFit District 5 and Fitness 2000. Like all gyms, there are peak times when it may seem like everyone and their brother is working out, so if you don’t like crowds, you may want to go early in the morning or late in the evening. Should your schedule only allow you to go during peak hours, ask the staff about the wait time for machines or equipment. If you work 2nd or 3rd shifts, a gym like Fitness 2000, open to members 24/7, may be the best bet for you.

If you’re all about group fitness classes because you know you can’t motivate yourself, make sure the gym you are considering offers those classes. If not classes, maybe a personal trainer to keep you on task during your workout. Either way, if you’re just starting out, consider the size and types of classes a gym offers. Instructors who focus on technique so you don’t get injured by doing an exercise incorrectly are the best. If you need focused instruction, then a smaller class may be best, but if you feel confident about your workout level, then a larger class, such as offered at our local

Y, may be the fun and motivation you seek. C3 Fitness offers both group classes as well as one on one training, and Fitness

Edge also offers one on one training. But if you want to explore other workouts like barre or yoga or Pilates, there are wonderful options nearby to try. Pure Barre-Clemmons and Sunrise Yoga Studio are in Clemmons, and Inner Strength Pilates is just down the street in Winston-Salem.

Barre classes mix elements of Pilates, dance, yoga and functional training, and the moves are choreographed to motivating music. In barre class you will use the barre and exercise equipment such as miniballs and small hand weights to sculpt, slim and stretch your entire body. It may sound easy, but it is a great, targeted workout. If you want to bring a little Zen into your life and relieve stress, yoga may be a great addition to your life and workout. Yoga classes can help you with your breath control, simple meditation, and the adoption of specific bodily posture, which is essential for overall health and relaxation of the body. Pilates focuses on strengthening your core and conditioning your body with precision of movement that will also improve your lean muscle mass, flexibility, muscular balance, and posture.

With all the options available, you also need to balance what you want and need from a gym and what you can afford. You may need to go straight to work after your workout and, if that’s the case, then a shower and locker room are musts, or if you have small children and will need childcare while you work out, then that will narrow your options. The best way to decide on the gym for you is to make a list of what you want, set a budget, jot down a few questions and make an appointment to see the gym, preferably during classes that you think might interest you. Just remember, don’t let any obstacle get in your way of becoming a healthier you. There is a gym that fits your needs, just look and you will find it!