HOME OR AWAY? – WHICH GYM IS RIGHT FOR YOU?

Some people just love the benefit of working out from home whilst others couldn’t think of anything worse. So what type of gym is best for you to achieve your personal fitness goals?

Your decision literally depends on many personal factors – your personality, convenience, cost, efficiency, value, time and motivation.

Below are a few factors to maybe take into consideration to find out what might be best for you.

It is believed that if you have to travel more than 4 miles to get to the gym then you will probably only make it once a month. So if there is not one on your doorstep it might not be worth the investment. Lousy weather, gym hours or closures can also be a factor in dissuading you from going as regularly as you should. A home based gym cuts out all of those road blocks, as you pretty much can train whenever and for as long as you want.

Obviously the cost of a membership will vary depending on the type of gym you choose. You can also be tied up to a yearly or quarterly commitment and prices will often increase yearly. The investment needed for a home gym can initially be expensive but as time goes on value for money improves, especially if you invest in high-quality equipment. The fact that home equipment it not being used by multiple users will also ensure longevity.

One of the major benefits of a gym membership is the motivation and accountability it offers. Working out along side like-minded people and with professional instructors is invaluable when it comes to achieving your goals. It is obviously no secret that the majority of people find it extremely hard to workout alone. Fortunately though, there are training plans, apps and family members that could help fill that gap.

A group setting definitely boosts motivation, improves performance and can often reduce the chance of injuries. It is also a great place to meet people and build lasting friendships. Working out alone at home can be lonely and for beginners injuries may be higher due to poor knowledge of technique and form. Today’s digital training systems can track progress and include you in a virtual class as well as giving you the benefit of correct instructions with regard to technique.

Of course most commercial gyms are not at a shortage for space. Not only will they provide a large amount of cardio and weight training equipment but they will often have a studio for group fitness classes, a cycling studio and even a small boxing ring. Many clubs also boast a sauna or steam room, massage rooms, child care and even a pool. Home gyms are obviously limited on space and therefore this inhibits the variety of equipment on offer for your workouts. Space-savers such as wall-mounted equipment is a must for a home gym.

So lots of pros and cons for both, taking into account all of the above means at least you can make an informed decision and choose the right path for your personality and fitness goals. There is no wrong path; except not choosing either!