Who we talked to:

Jason Miller, membership director, Coolidge Corner Gym, Brookline, Mass., coolidgecornergym.com

John Pascucci, manager, Beacon Hill Athletic Clubs, Boston, beaconhillathleticclubs.com

Barbara Maida, manager, Go Figure, Westwood, Mass.

What are the most common reasons people join your gym?

Miller: "We've been here for 30 years and are pretty community based. We have a lot of cardio equipment, free weights and machines."

Pascucci: "To lose weight, for health reasons and to feel better about themselves."

Maida: "Because it's a laid-back, relaxed atmosphere. It's an all-women's fitness center."

How long is a membership good for and how much does it cost?

Miller: "You can get a yearly membership for $590 or a monthly membership for $58 per month."

Pascucci: "Membership is $64 per month."

Maida: "We have a yearly membership with a contract or a month-to-month membership. Both cost $39 per month, but there's a $100 fee for month-to-month."

Do you offer personal training sessions? If so, does this cost extra or is it included in a membership?

Miller: "We do. That is separate from the membership. It's usually $55 per hour."

Pascucci: "Yes. There is one introductory session included in the membership, and after that, it costs $55 per hour."

Maida: "Yes, we do. We give them a free hour of personal training when they become a member. We also have a personal training package of 10 sessions for $400."

Do you offer group exercise classes? If so, what are a few examples?

Miller: "We have group training so two members can split the cost."

Pascucci: "Yes. We offer Yoga and a power muscle class."

Maida: "No. That is the one thing we don't offer."

What amenities does your center offer?

Miller: "We have a towel service."

Pascucci: "We have towel service, a sauna, showers, and body wash and shampoo in the showers."

Maida: "We have magazines, child care, and a bathroom with a full shower and a locker room."

Are there any other benefits included in a membership?

Miller: "It's a pretty basic gym."

Pascucci: "You can use our other clubs at no additional cost with the exception of the Wellesley club because they have different dues."

Maida: "Women have developed friendships, so it's a social place."

Do you have any advice for people who are considering joining a fitness center?

Miller: "Give it a shot and take it on a day-to-day basis."

Pascucci: "Go ahead and do it. There's no time like right now."

Maida: "Just make sure you check gyms out and don't be talked into a contract."