If you're thinking about investing in a gym membership, chances are you've talked to a couple of naysayers who wonder why you'd spend the money when you could simply go for a walk or run outside. That approach works for some people, but might not meet your particular needs. A gym membership can help you to increase your fitness levels above and beyond what you'd get hiking a trail.
Convenience
Five times as many people watch television as work out on a daily basis, according to a 2008 report by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. When many would-be exercisers are huddled in their homes avoiding rain, sleet or snow, you can still get your workout in if you have a gym membership. You'll enjoy a constant comfortable temperature year-round. If you don't live close to safe sidewalks or jogging trails, you'll also appreciate being able to stop at the gym on your way home from work. Going to the gym can easily become part of your daily routine.
Motivation and Routine
Once you've shelled out the money for a gym membership, you won't want it to go to waste. Simply seeing the money being deducted every month from your bank account can motivate you to go and get your dollars' worth. It's also easy to get into a routine at the gym. The University of Maryland Medical Center recommends joining a gym and sticking to a schedule as a way to increase your motivation to work out. You may become accustomed to stopping off at your gym before or after work and may reserve your favorite equipment. Pretty soon, going to the gym can become a habit that makes your day feel complete.
Access to Equipment
Exercise equipment can be pricey. Some people purchase a treadmill or a few weights for home use, but aside from the very wealthy, most don't have the funds to set up a complete exercise room with a variety of cardiovascular exercise machines and weights. A gym gives you the opportunity to use different cardio equipment for your workouts and provides equipment to strength-train your entire body. If you get tired of using an elliptical machine, you can simply move on to another type of equipment, whereas if you bought the machine for your home, it might begin to gather dust.
Access to Expertise
Perhaps the most important reason to purchase a gym membership is the expertise you'll have access to. If you're new to working out, or want to see greater results, most gyms offer personal-training sessions for an extra fee. Staff are usually happy to help you learn to use a piece of equipment or answer your fitness questions. You'll also be able to take classes led by fitness instructors who are experts in yoga, aerobic fitness, dance and other specialties.
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