Walking and working out in a gym are both ways to get exercise and improve your health. Each has its advantages and disadvantages. If you need to choose between the two, look at your lifestyle and personality. The right choice for one person is the wrong choice for another. Try both programs and see which one you like best, or do both to add variety to your workout routine.
Cost
Joining a gym costs money; walking is free. Some gyms charge an initial fee payable with your application, as well as a monthly membership fee. If the gym requires a contact, note whether you have to sign up for a specified length of time. If you're not sure you'll stick with the gym, look for a facility that will charge you month to month, with no contract.
Also compare prices of different gyms. The YMCA or your local rec center is likely to offer gym facilities at a lower cost than most fitness centers. Some employers also offer gym membership as a benefit. If your doctor has prescribed working out to address a health problem, your insurance company might pay all or part of your membership.
Amenities
Gyms offer a variety of exercise equipment so you can mix up your workout and always have variety. If you want to add variety to your walking routine, plan different routes for a change of scenery. Add hand weights or a weight vest for strength training. You could also ride a bike over your walking route for a different kind of exercise, or alternate jogging and walking. Gyms may have pools, saunas and snackbars, which can be a plus in their favor if you think you'll use those facilities.
Motivation
Paying a gym membership every month motivates some people to get their money's worth and exercise regularly. If you join a workout class or work with a trainer, knowing that other people depend on you can motivate you to show up. On the other hand, after a long day at work, some people don't want to leave the house to head out to the gym.
Others are self-conscious about exercising in front of others, or feel they need special workout clothes. For these people, walking in their own neighborhood is easier than driving to the gym. If you need extra motivation, ask a friend to be your walk buddy and arrange to meet at the same time every day. Or get a dog and take it walking every day. Once he's in the habit of walking, he'll nudge you into your daily workout. .
Considerations
No matter whether you choose to exercise by walking, or at a gym, get a minimum of 30 minutes of exercise a day most days. A combination of aerobics, such as brisk walking, swimming or bicycling, combined with strength training provides the most benefits. If you're walking outside, dress in layers so you can take off a jacket as you warm up. Wear supportive shoes and drink plenty of water. If you're out of shape or have health problems, consult your doctor about an appropriate exercise program for you.
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