Going to the gym and working out at home both have their merits. Whether one is better than the other depends more on your exercise preferences than anything else. The key to determining which environment is better for you is to look at the different factors that make up the gym and home exercise experience.
Convenience
When you work out at home, you do not have to worry about traffic or travel time to and from your workout location -- ideal if you exercise before work. If you have children, you do not have to worry about finding child care. If you exercise after work, you don't have to make an extra stop on your way home, or worry about getting home late. Working out at home also means that you do not have to compete for exercise machines during peak hours, and you can work out on your schedule, not when the gym is open.
Variety
A good gym has different types of cardio machines, free weights, dumbbells, barbells and weight machines. It may also have fitness classes ranging from aerobics to yoga. Gyms may offer swimming pools and team sports leagues for members. Additionally, a gym has staff on hand to show you how to use the equipment, and personal trainers who can help you tweak your exercise routine. If you are someone who bores easily, if you need guidance, or if you have limited space or money for exercise equipment, a gym may be the better option for you.
Motivation
Gyms by their nature are designed specifically for exercise and to motivate people to work out. From the bright lights and energetic music, to the mirrored walls, the giant picture windows in the exercise rooms, everything about the gym says "exercise now." The average home, designed more for comfort and relaxation, is not typically workout friendly. At home you may have to deal with distractions, such as pets, family and phone calls. If you can zone out those distractions and have the discipline to avoid the couch between sets, working out at home may be for you. If not, head to the gym.
Introvert or Extrovert
Gyms are full of people and, if you go to one regularly, you find yourself in social situations because you begin to recognize other regulars. For some, the social aspect of the gym makes it easier to work out because those social attachments motivate them to work harder and keep coming back. Others find the social aspect of the gym a distraction that detracts from the workout. If you prefer a solitary exercise session, then home may be best for you. If, for you, exercise equals social time, head to the gym.
References
- "Personal Trainer Manual"; American Council on Exercise; December 1996
- "Physiology of Sport and Exercise"; Dr. Jack H. Wilmore et al; November 2007
Member Comments