Fitness clubs, fitness centers or gyms- they all mean the same thing: It's a place you go to stay fit. From exclusive fitness centers that offer complete spa-like amenities to simple neighborhood gyms with the most basic of exercise equipment, fitness clubs fill that special call for those who are conscious about staying fit.

If you're thinking about joining a fitness center but are still unsure of what it has in store for you, then you're reading the right piece. This article will help you come to a decision by giving you the pros and cons of joining fitness clubs. If you want the lowdown on gym memberships, then read on and find out:

Pros of Joining Fitness Clubs:

1. Most gyms have a wide array of exercise equipment you need for your workout. We all know it's next to impossible to buy your own fitness equipment and that is why gyms are the best places to go, particularly for weight training.

2. Fitness clubs have certified instructors to guide you through your workout. These coaches are indispensable particularly for beginners who need to be guided on the correct form and technique of using exercise equipment to avoid overstrain and injury. Ask for trainer qualifications up front before enrolling in any gym.

3. The gym is a place for workout and psychologically prepares one for exercise. No one goes to the gym to ogle bodies (well, maybe there are some who do). Those who are serious about losing weight or developing muscle know why they endure the rigors of a gym workout. Once you enter the hallowed halls of a fitness club, you're all psyched for nothing else but exercise.

Cons of Joining Fitness Clubs:

1. Gyms require membership fees. If you're working on a tight budget, this might be one of the most important things you'll have to consider. While some clubs offer a pay-as-needed basis, most operate on monthly or quarterly membership schedules. Others require members to sign up for long-term contracts involving a year or more. Avoid this whenever possible since you'll never know if a gym is right for you until you've tried it out for awhile.

2. You share equipment with other users. While most gyms have a complete or near complete collection of exercise equipment, they don't have enough treadmills, ellipticals or barbells for each user. Chances are, you'll have to wait for your turn. And, if you squirm at the thought of using the same bench filled with the sweat of someone else, then you might have to think twice of gym membership because this is an all-too real scenario you'll have to deal with.

3. Your hectic schedule might make trips to the gym inconvenient and irregular. For a weight training program to achieve desired results, compliance to a regular schedule is necessary. Most of the time, the demands of work and family will always put the gym at the backseat, to the detriment of your fitness regimen and your membership fee.

There you have it-- the real deal on the advantages and disadvantages of a fitness club membership. If you're up to it, then by all means enroll yourself in one. Otherwise, you're better off at home observing your own exercise regimen.