Before joining a gym, think about your own motivations and interests—and consider alternatives. Set realistic fitness goals, then think about whether you really need to pay a company big bucks for activities that are probably available more cheaply elsewhere.

When comparing fitness clubs, consider several points, including what its members say, its location, membership fees, contract terms, facilities and equipment, classes, and amenities. Our ratings of area clubs will help you find the right fit.

Membership at many clubs doesn’t come cheap. Although some bare-bones gyms cost less than $300 a year, many charge more than $600. Want a club that offers racquet sports or a wide range of facilities and amenities? Expect to pay a lot more.

A good bike shop can provide immense help selecting and maintaining a bike, beginning when you first start shopping and throughout the time you ride the bike you purchase.

As you begin to shop, determine what you expect to do with your bike and choose your bike accordingly. In general, the more you plan to ride and to compete, the more the bike will cost.

The most important thing you can do to assure yourself high-quality medical care is to form a strong relationship with a good primary care physician and, at times, together make informed decisions on specialty care. We identify top area doctors.

Once you have identified doctors who are potential candidates, you may want to get answers to several questions about each. Here’s a list of things to ask.

Whichever doctor you select, how you interact with the doctor will have a big effect on the success of your care. Here are some suggestions on how to get the best care from doctors.