these are all great suggestions.

my husband and i both have memberships to 24 hour fitness...if you have a family its nice because they have a "kids club" that provides child care so we can both workout at the same time or for me, in the mroning while he is at work also since we travel a lot its nice to be able to go to a gym wherever we are...gyms will sometimes help to movtivate people...one you paid for it, 2 you get to know people who expect to see you ther everyday and you can meet friends (for example today i forgot my ipod and it was my running day, luckily a few of my friends were there and i was able to run hold a conversation with them for the whole time thus making the time fly), 3 you can learn how to do things correctly (ie 24 fitnes really promotes training which i things lessens intimidation esp. in women first starting out0 4) they have awesome classes your wife might dig, too

good luck in your search...i think finding a perfect gym is liking finding a perfect home church...you just hafta know what you are looking for and feel welcome so youll continue to go--if you dont go what benefit is it to you?

I am sure you have found a gym by now, but for those that have stumbled across this post, there are great Gym and Health club specific directories out there that list gyms acording to the amenities and fitness classes you want. It really helps narrows it down and saves you a lot of time searching. Save the work out for the gym.

Here is a good resource... Worldwidegyms.com provides a complete directory of over 20,000 top rated gyms, fitness centers and health clubs each offering exclusive offers and discounts. Quickly and easily find gyms, health clubs and fitness centers in your area with http://www.worldwidegyms.com.

My wife and I recently joined Planet Fitness - very reasonable and you are charged monthly with no long term contract - three classes with a trainer are at no cost and you can take the small group classes as often as you want for no extra charge - when we went, we had the trainer to ourselves and she took us through a three day training routine - she showed us how each of the machines worked, how to set them up, and the weights that we should begin with - after three months at the primary location, you can transfer your membership to another one of the Planet Fitness facilities, which is great because we will soon be moving - clean facility, tvs to watch whils you do your cardio work, and trainers around to answer specific questions - no track or pool but we do not need that as we live in an adult commnity that offers those amenities - the spouse and I currently go together to provide encouragement but I am very comfortable there after four visits and can do the routines by myself - others working out are friendly if you need advice but do not bother you - give it a try!!