Gone are the days of the muscle head meat market crowd at your local gym. More and more gyms are catering to the older everyday people that are looking to get fit. Going to the gym or health club isn’t quite what is used to be.

Depending on how long it's been since you went to a  gym, you might be surprised at the changes. Health clubs have become conscious of the desires of older members. They are actively recruiting people from the 50+ age group, and they are creating special programs and tailored information for them. The equipment is much better than before and you can find a variety of ways to get in shape for people of all fitness levels.

Don't think that you will be the only middle aged person in the fitness center. More and more people 40 and older are joining health clubs.

In addition to finding a club membership of all sizes and ages, you'll also find a variety of programs appealing to the over-50 crowd.  You can even find low impact and low intensity training classes.

Don’t be shy about asking for discounts or special promotions, they more than likely will have something you can take advantage of.  Depending on where you live and what amenities your club offers, enrollment fees can be hundreds of dollars, and monthly fees can range from $50 to $200 or more. Many clubs offer discounted rates to seniors, so if no one mentions it, ask!

Make sure you understand exactly what is included in your membership, so you aren't paying for anything you wont use. Also inquire about specials; many clubs will waive the one-time initiation fee if you are transferring from another health club, or if you sign up with a spouse or a friend.

Check out a couple health clubs before you choose. Most clubs will offer potential members free passes so you can actually try the gym before you decide to join. Schedule your visit for the time of day you plan to use the facilities so you can see who is there at that time and how crowded it is. Ask the members about the pros and cons where as they are more likely to give you the real scoop.

Beginning an exercise program can be a daunting task. By choosing the right club, you give yourself the motivation to succeed. A good health club can be the difference in whether or not you make progress.