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Name-Drop the Competition

“I SAVED $204.

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“They matched the deal.

I pay $20 a month instead of $37.”

Be a Social Networker

Daily deals sites, such asGroupon.comandLivingSocial.com, offer big local savings.

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These are often blink-or-you’ll-miss-‘em offers, so act fast.

24 Hour Fitness offers a similar carrota three-day freebieon its Facebook page.

Front the Cash

“I SAVED $150.

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Paying in advance instead of monthly can trigger a major discount.

At Costco, you could snag a two-year contract to any 24 Hour Fitness for $320.

That works out to $13 a month, versus $37 when you pay in installments.

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Gather a Group

Send an all-call work email for gym joiners.

At Gold’s Gym, 10 or more coworkers who sign up together receive an automatic 10 percent discount.

Some clubs even allow roommates to use a discounted family membership, Kufahl says.

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FINAGLE A FREE YEARInquire about incentives for referrals.

“I’ve seen people accrue a free year from referring buddies.”

Your Gotta-Have-It Checklist

Because a gym is not a bargain if you never go.

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A locale on your regular route.Convenienceisking.

Fit favorites.Request a few free day passes to test your go-to classesSpin,kickboxing,kettlebellsor Zumba.

you’re free to get to know the instructors and see if they impress you.

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A solid first impression.Eye the equipment; take a shower; use the bathroom.

Then ask a regular what she thinks of the club.

A candid, unbiased opinion can be the best indicator if a gym is for you.

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Joined the Wrong Gym?

These tips make a split as painless as possible.

Dig out your paperwork.Your contract includes info on how to quit (likely in super small print!).

One caveat: You’ll need to get your gym to approve a sale.

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