Resolutions to get fit in 2010 can now be revived. Reviews of local gyms will hopefully help jump- start your motivation to finding the best gym for the new you in the new year

Compiled By Min Qiao

Monon Center

This newly constructed facility is the center for almost any kind of activity. From its standard gym with some of the newest and technologically advanced equipment to the indoor track, the Monon Center has the resources for any activity. Entering through the Monon Center West entrance, the first thing one sees it its indoor water park. The emphasis here is on the “park.” Crossing over the lobby to go upstairs, one can then see a standard gym complete with elliptical machines and weight lifting equipment.

Beyond the gym, there is a brand-spanking-new indoor track with an equally impressive basketball court right below. Even more, the Monon Community Center is also filled with various workout studios perfect for the large variety of fitness classes taught here. The Monon Community Center brochures lists over 100 classes available for people of all ages, including special events and non-athletic activities.

Due to the large variety of activity that goes on around the facility, it seems be more of an activity center than a gym. The classes here range from standard aerobics workouts to painting and French. It is the one-stop center for any and everything which makes it especially suitable for family-oriented activities and workouts.

Certainly the huge breadth of activities available at the Monon Community Center can be a plus, but it can also sometimes be a negative. Instead of in-depth fitness classes to actually train participants in that particular area, the classes at the Monon Community Center tends to be geared toward beginners to learn that activity. For only $35 a month, this is a perfect way to stretch that last dollar and still get the benefits of a large gym to explore all of its programs, although additional classes here can cost up anywhere from $60 to $100.

Lifetime Fitness

Much like the Monon Center, Lifestyle Family Fitness puts an emphasis on family and it even has a kid’s club. However, the focus here is much more honed towards fitness and workouts. While the facility here is certainly smaller than Monon Center, that does not deter from the quality of resources. Everything from the equipment to the general condition of the place shows that it is well-maintained and everything is kept in mint conditions.

In addition to their main gym with the standard treadmills, bikes and weight machines, this place also features indoor basketball courts and a pool. Even though the pool might not be as big as one at an actual aquatics center, the four 25-yard lanes here are enough for a good swim. All of the classes here are fitness-oriented, including anything from Pilates to senior fit.

What stands out especially about Lifestyle Family Fitness is the service provided here. Upon joining the gym, members will get three free personal training sessions that can help guide them through the equipment. In addition, the club takes great measures to make sure that their members achieve whatever fitness goals they have. Members may opt for an initial test to measure things like body fat percentage and fitness level. From there, they will help find the perfect workout to cater to members’ goals.

All of these resources rack up a pretty high price tag for this gym. However, given the quality of service and workout equipment available, it is definitely worth the buck.

Carmel Total Fitness

With a basketball court, racquetball court and decent sized gym, the Carmel Total Fitness center is pretty much a standard workout center. Despite the slightly older building where it is housed, the actual equipment at the facility is relatively new and up-to-date. Its brochure boasts a tanning booth and a sauna as well. For an additional price, there is also a nursery for those who needs child care services while at the gym.

The classes offered here are pretty standard with some like Pilates, Tae Kwon Do and cycling free with the membership while other classes like Power Pump charge additional fees. Compared to the some of the other gyms, however, the resources at this facility are relatively scarce. The variety of activities available is limited but it does have the essential equipment for anyone to get a good workout.

The one thing that does stand out about this gym is its quiet environment. Since the gym is not as crowded, one can truly workout in a comfortable and serene environment. Carmel Total Fitness also offers the most flexible range of prices. If you are not willing to dish the bucks to be a member, there are Daily Fitness passes and Group Fitness classes that allows people the same access as members.