Yes, both California and Planet Fitness do give trial sessions.
You can either get it at the gyms themselves, or through their
members (through recommendations), or through promotions in
magazines, by mobile phone companies, internet companies, etc
etc.
For Planet Fitness (the Suntec branch), I think its OK to go for
the trial sessions. At other places though, I cannot guarantee that
they won't bug you all the way with high-pressured sales tactics
and make you feel awkward and sign up for the packages.
Even at gyms which don't offer trial sessions, you can ask for a
tour (then notice whether they give you the $2 tour or $50 tour to
judge their attitude). Remember that as a consumer, you have the
right to see what you're buying!
Personally, I think the equipment at any gym will make no
difference to the normal person (its all the same). If you're the
kind looking for something special, then its different. What I'd
look out for is the atmosphere - at a gym, this would be dependent
on its staff and members. I wouldn't be too comfortable at places
where people are overly snooty.
Its best to view the gym at the times where you're likely to visit
(eg. 7 pm on weekdays, etc). Then you can see the atmosphere, crowd
and conditions during which you will be there.
Ya, and of course don't forget to also notice how thin the members'
sports bras are.....its a very important consideration for
me!
