Olympics to drive new gym memberships

Team GB have had great success in the 2008 Beijing Olympics and this will have motivated everyday people to get more exercise and join the gym.

Gym membership in the UK has seen some huge increase in numbers and has become big business as the massive chains like Virgin, Cannons, Fitness First and Holmes Place look for more locations across the UK.

Joining a gym for many people is the best way to get fit as there is a central location with equipment, instructors, normally a swimming pool and obviously other people excercising which can help motivate you

If you've signed for a gym membership, you'll be better off choosing one with a comfort level that fits you. Being self-conscious will do you no good while your trying to workout if everyone in there intimidates you because they're all buff and you're still whimpering. Consider becoming a member where the general view (equipment, facilities, people who work and workout there, cleanliness) is more your speed and as you get better or feel more comfortable, you can search out something more hyped up. It comes down to whether you feel right or not with the membership you have. If you don't, prepare to keep wasting your money.

In the beginning it may not be so easy sticking to a routine but give it a month or two and you'll be into the habit of it so much, and start noticing good results that you'll start finding reasons why you have to be there instead of skipping.