I begin this entry with a huge confession: I once was a gym rat. I used to go at least every day, sometimes twice a day, to the gym when I lived in Washington DC. I didn’t start off trying to get in shape, but to heal my knee from a dance injury. I joined Washington Sports Club (a part of the My Sports Club Network which includes NYSC) and was a constant presence in the gym. I even hired a personal trainer. I don’t remember when the gym rat died in me but I think it coincided with my change of careers and a change in the cost of the gym.

As my laziness has increased, so has my waistline. Always intrigued by the fitness deals, I decided to splurge on the NYSC deal. At $24 for a month long membership, I was willing to take the risk that I might not go more than twice. Plus, if I liked the gym again, I would qualify for the Student/Teacher rate of $29/month – a bargain for gyms in NYC. So on June 4th I walked to the nearest NYSC to me – 145th Street. My only other time in this club had been to take a shower when my building’s water went out. Now I was ready to work out (or at least take the Reggae class).

The class was great and was one of the best dance classes I have taken outside of the professional studio. I felt challenged as an athlete and as a dancer while also being able to work on my technique. I knew when I left the class I would be back. But this class wasn’t enough to convince me that the gym was for me.

Another day I tried boot camp class. While I have heard so many great things about boot camp classes, this one didn’t connect for me. The activities were goofy and the studio was too small for all of the participants. I think if the class was moved outside, I would be more apt to return. So far the scorecard for NYSC was 1-1.

I have gone back a few more times and am 50-50 on whether to join as a fulltime member. The reggae class is great! The instructor teaches at a few NYSC locations, so that is a plus side to joining. There are a few other classes that seem interesting to join, but the 145th location doesn’t seem to have the variety of other clubs. Besides the classes, I have biked and used the stretching areas. I wasn’t super impressed with the equipment but for the price of my deal it was ok. If I was paying full price, I’m not sure I would be happy.

Overall, I can’t say that I think NYSC is for me (even at the reduced cost). Living in NYC, there are so many amazing fitness opportunities and the gym seems to be the least appealing to me. However, I do think that in the winter time the gym could be a better choice. I only wish that the memberships were 6 month commitments instead of 12 months, but that would be too consumer friendly.

I definitely suggest visiting the 145th Street club on a Monday at 8:30 to take the Reggae class. NYSC usually offers a free trial and I would make that class my free trial. There is also a 30 day $30 dollar deal which seems pretty good (if you are committed to going every day!).

To learn more about NYSC, visit the website: www.mysportsclub.com

My 30 day pass to class!