One of the many advantages of racquetball is the availability of playing courts. There seems to be one in every high school gym or some park.
Unfortunately, outside weather is sometimes not on your side. Or sometimes, your usual public courts might just be too hot for your playing comforts.
What are your alternatives? A private gym is one great idea if you want to join for the sole purpose of having a convenient, year-round access to racquetball courts. However, there are some considerations to check out before you join in one.
First, let us look at the disadvantages.
Fees
One of the big complaints about private members-only gyms is the price. Some would allow you to sign up for a racquetball-only membership.
The sad part is you will still have to fork out a pricey initiation fee that can run up to hundreds of dollars. This is on top of your monthly due which is around $10 to $40 depending on the area where you live.
Availabilities
This can get tricky. Your gym might only have a limited number of courts. During peak business hours, you may have to wait for a vacant court even if you had scheduled your play time in advance.
The busiest times are early morning, early evening and lunch time. The best times on weekdays are between 8 and 10 a.m., 1 and 4 p.m. and after 7 p.m. Avoid morning hours on weekends. Afternoons or evenings are good.
If your gym has seasonal racquetball leagues and you are not participating, you will have a tough time getting a court for the whole season.
Here are the advantages of joining a gym.
Conveniences
If your gym does not offer racquetball-only memberships, you will have to buy a full membership. Happily, this grants you access to an array of fitness classes, weights and cardio machines.
They may even have you use their basketball courts, the sauna and the swimming pool. Using these additional facilities will help you get in better shape to play racquetball. Some gyms also offer free child care allowing you and your partner to enjoy your game.
Friends
Many gyms have racquetball leagues. If you are new in town, joining the league affords you to meet fellow players and new friends.
These guys are just as die-hard as you are in the game and they are more than willing to share their insights and pointers.
Facilities
One good thing about exclusive gyms is the quality of the courts clean, and regularly well-maintained. They are often located indoors to make sure members can play all year round. Since you are paying good money, damages on the floor are quickly repaired.
Choices
Before committing to anything, you can look around for free, public racquetball courts in your area as well as the popularity of the sports. Check online any facilities that offer discount play and other perks.
As always, identify your pros and your cons in choosing gyms to play racquetball. If you sign in, make sure you understand your gym contract so you get the most for your money while enjoying your favorite sports.