The function \( f(x) = 35x + 50 \) represents the total cost of gym membership after \( x \) months, where:
- \( 35x \) accounts for the monthly fee of $35 for each month.
- The constant term \( 50 \) represents the one-time membership fee.
Thus, the initial value of the function, which occurs when \( x = 0 \) (the starting point before any months have passed), is \( f(0) = 35(0) + 50 = 50 \).
Therefore, the correct interpretation is:
The initial value of 50 represents the one-time membership fee.