…about getting started
…about the Fitness Center
…about getting started
Can I try the Fitness Center before I become a member?
Yes! Our 14-day try-before-you-buy trial membership lets you try the Fitness Center absolutely free, with no risk or obligation, before you decide to become a member. We want you to meet our staff, meet other members and give us a chance to earn your business. We recommend that you visit during the times that you will most likely be exercising when you join. The 14-day trial includes one thirty-minute consultation with a fitness instructor.
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Do I have to sign a contract?
No, your membership will continue until you notify us otherwise (status changes need to be made by the 15th of the month). We handle our billings and member accounts internally. This means your membership is not turned over to a third-party billing company.
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Can I get a deal of any type?
We pride ourselves on treating every member the same every time; therefore, we don't make individual deals with new members. Our membership rates are clearly posted and only change every 2–3 years when we make inflation-related increases. If you are committed to fitness and want to save money, too, then our regular annual membership is the tool for you. By paying your annual dues in advance, you save about 5%. If you anticipate traveling or just don't feel that you are ready to get involved in a long-term fitness program, then you may want to consider our month-to-month option that does not have an initiation fee. Ask about our corporate membership rates if you think your employer may be part of our Corporate Wellness program.
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How do I get started?
It‘s simple. Contact Member Services at 274.3432 ext. 274 or stop by and any of our membership staff will help you choose the right membership for you. The process only takes about 30 minutes.
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What are my payment options?
If you would like to pay monthly, we use your bank account or a credit card account for your monthly electronic funds transfer payment. If you prefer to pay annually, you will receive a slight discount for paying in advance and we will bill you that amount each year.
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What is a Corporate Membership?
NIFS has a Corporate Wellness program through which we work with area employers to provide health and fitness opportunities to their workforce. This program is available to any size company. Click here to see a list of eligible companies.
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…about the Fitness Center
Do you have lockers and towel service?
We have free lockers and towels for your use while you are here. We also have a limited number of rental lockers for those who like to keep a change of clothes and/or toiletries handy at the Fitness Center. The rental fee is $10 per month. See the Service Desk staff if you are interested in renting a locker. We do ask all members and guests to help us conserve our laundry resources by using only the necessary number of towels during their visit.
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Do I have to have a card to check in?
We will issue you a key tag that makes checking in easy and fast. If you forget your card, simply stop by the desk, show a picture ID and we will quickly check you in. Checking in at the Service Desk is mandatory for all members and their guests.
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Do I have to register for group fitness classes?
You do not need to register for most classes. However, there are some classes that do require registration. This includes many new classes and classes with limited equipment availability. Group Fitness schedule class descriptions should include registration information. If you are new to a class, please show up a few minutes early to introduce yourself to the instructor. This is especially important if you have any medical, injury or orthopedic concerns the instructor should know about.
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Can I make a training appointment or other fitness appointment by phone?
Yes, you can book by phone by calling 274.3432 ext. 262 or email us.
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Can I bring a guest?
Members are welcome to bring guests to the Fitness Center. A member‘s guest receives his or her first three guest passes for $5 each when accompanied by a member. Each additional pass will cost $12 (our normal rate). If your guest lives in our marketing area and qualifies for our trial membership, we will be happy to extend this courtesy.
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How do I provide feedback, make a suggestion, or pat a staff person on the back?
Your feedback is extremely valued. We welcome your comments, suggestions and ideas — after all, the Fitness Center is for your enjoyment! There are several ways to communicate with us:
- For immediate attention, please do not hesitate to share your thoughts with any staff person. If they can assist you, they will. If not, they will find someone who can.
- A Suggestion & Comment Box is located in the Fitness Center lobby. A staff person will follow up with all suggestions and comments when contact information is provided.
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There is so much going on in the Fitness Center. How do I keep myself informed?
Communicating everything that is available to our members can be a challenge because we offer such a large and diverse selection of services and programs. Here are some of the ways we keep members up-to-date:
- Our Web site
- Our NIFSource newsletter mailed quarterly to your home
- Our weekly e-newsletter, which you may sign up for on our Web site if you‘re not already receiving it
- Banners, posters and bulletin boards around the facility
- The Touchscreen kiosk in the Fitness Center hallway that allows you to view and register for classes, record your workouts and participate in incentive programs
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What should I wear when I work out here?
Look closely and you‘ll see NIFS is pretty much a sweats-and-t-shirt type of place. Most people here work out in comfortable, loose-fitting exercise clothes. T-shirts and shorts are the most common, with some people wearing sweat pants. Comfortable athletic shoes that provide good support are very important.
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Who can help me with my fitness program?
Any of our Fitness Instructors can help you with a fitness program. Call 274.3432 ext. 262, email us or ask to be scheduled in-person when you are in NIFS fitness center. There is no charge for this service unless you are a month-to-month member.
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How many laps equal a mile on the track?
The track is a 200-meter track. If you are in lane 1, then 8 laps = 1 mile. If you are in lane 6, then 6.8 laps = 1 mile. Faster runners should stay in the outer lanes and slower runners and walkers should use the inner lanes.
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What are the hours?
Monday – Thursday: 5:15 am – 10:00 pm
Friday: 5:15 am – 9:00 pm
Saturday and Sunday: 7:00 am – 6 pm
Click here to view business hours, holiday hours and closed days.
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Does the Institute serve more than just athletes?
The Institute serves the entire community, in addition to the serious athlete. Our programs and services are designed to serve both younger and mature individuals, seasoned exercisers and beginners. Numerous programs specifically serve the underprivileged and special populations.
Is the Institute part of White River State Park?
The land our building sits on is adjacent to the Park. Other entities within the Park include the NCAA Headquarters, Victory Field (Indianapolis Indians baseball), IMAX 3D Theater, Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians and Western Art, Indiana State Museum and the Indianapolis Zoo.
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