Today, there are more choices,more amenities, more services and virtually unlimited pricing structures within the industry. The first step I advise my clients to do is assess their own needs. Many membership fees are based on what you use. A one club membership is generally considerably cheaper than a full use card. Why pay for locations you don't visit.
Most health clubs offer day care for a minimal hourly fee.
If the club has a pool this can increase the costdue to maintenance and liability. Just as in locations, lookat what you will really use before making a decision. Examine a few clubs. If a facility is said to be available 24 hours, is it really or just on certain days. Make sure the staff is cerififed from a legitimate organization such as the American Council on Exercise.