BY ROSS HABER

Want to sculpt a jaw dropping figure? Desperate to chisel those washboard abs only seen in movies? Well, look no further, because within a two mile radius of MHS, there are three fitness clubs at which your dream body can become a reality.

Whether you are preparing for an upcoming sport or just looking to stay in shape, a gym membership is an excellent way to achieve your goals. Many MHS students are frequent visitors of the local gym. The New York Sports Club and the Equinox Fitness Club have been the two most popular amongst our students.

However, no two fitness clubs are alike, and choosing the right one can make all the difference in your gym experience. Each club has its perks--only you can make the choice of which to join.

To help decide which gym best suits you, here is some information about the local fitness clubs:

The New York Sports Club is your basic fitness center. With a $20 a month student membership, you have access to all NYSC locations, including the convenient Larchmont and Mamaroneck venues. However, from 4:30 PM to 7:30 PM on Monday through Thursday, there is an additional $8 entrance fee to the club.

Most of the cardiovascular machines, such as treadmills and stair-masters, are equipped with personal TV sets to provide entertainment during workouts. Saunas in both the men’s and women’s locker rooms are available to help you relax after a hard workout.

While cleanliness is not a priority at the NYSC, they manage to keep it relatively sanitary. If you’re looking for a basic gym for a cheap price, this is the gym for you.

Our other local gym is the Equinox Fitness Club, which is conveniently located across the street from MHS. The title “fitness club,” however, doesn’t necessarily do it justice. With a spa that offers massages and exfoliation treatments, a kid’s club to occupy children while their parents work out and triple filtered water fountains throughout the building, Equinox resembles more a five star resort than a gym.

Cleanliness is a top priority at Equinox. A manager is employed with the sole responsibility of keeping the club squeaky clean. After each class in either the studio room, yoga room, or spin room, each piece of equipment is cleaned extensively to ensure the members are satisfied with the conditions. The locker rooms are equipped with high-tech air systems to provide a fresh scent day in and day out. If you can’t stand grime, consider a membership here.

Some other amenities at the Equinox include a fitness shop with the latest apparel and steam rooms to relax before or after your workout. If you ever have a question, there are 26 certified personal trainers to provide assistance during your workout.

But can a gym be perfect in every way? Is there at least one downfall? There is, and it’s a big one. The monthly membership fee for the Equinox is $138, nearly seven times that of the NYSC. The price is worth it for some; others find the extra features to be extravagant and superfluous.

The New York Sports Club and Equinox Fitness Club have very different philosophies. While the NYSC emphasizes an affordable price with all the necessary features, the Equinox goes the extra mile to provide an extraordinary experience for its members.

So, if you have some money to spare, the Equinox is for you. But if you’re just looking for a basic fitness center that can get you in shape, the New York Sports club is the more realistic choice.

Just remember, simply paying a monthly fee is not going to get you in shape! It takes hard work, dedication and persistent habits of working out to transform your body and improve your life.

Have fun exercising at the gym that’s right for you!