Thinking of joining the gym - Is it worth it?

shellbellnz · February 2014

Hiya, I am thinking of joining the gym. I have found one near me that is affordable. Its still a waste of money though if I don't go or if its not better than what I am doing. Currently I am running most days, walking the dog most days and either doing the 30 day shred or the korflex workout. I went to have a look at the gym last night and I am tempted but still unsure. I have joined the gym twice in my life before but it was years ago when I really had no interest in exercise and didn't need to lose any weight. This time though I am pretty sure I would be more committed as I do already exercise everyday.

I have lost most of the weight I am wanting to lose, maybe have another 5 kilos tops to go. Mainly though I am wanting to tone up my tummy area.

It would be good in the winter, it would be something different to do but I can't decide. So I guess I am asking for opinions on what you get out of the gym, why you go, etc. Thanks.

Jillian11905 · February 2014

My workouts don't feel right if I am not at the gym at least 3 days a week. I specifically prefer the gym because of their strength training machines and equipment. In the summertime I don't do a lot of cardio in the gym because I prefer being outside than on a treadmill but when it comes to strength training, there is no place I would rather be other than the gym. Trying to do it at home doesn't work for me. I think it is worth it getting a membership.

Confuzzled4ever · February 2014

I go everyday.. It makes me feel good. I go to classes and there are people at each of them that keep me accountable to be there. If I don't show they call me out on it next time I see them. There are a lot of weights there and opportunities to work muscles you didn't even know you had. I wouldn't do half the workouts I do if I didn't belong to a gym.

WhiteRabbit1313 · February 2014

I started weight lifting and love the gym, now, because of it.

wyattj99 · February 2014

I'm in the same boat. Do I or not. So far I've done everything at home.

Amanda_Gx6 · February 2014

Does the gym offer a trial period membership or day passes at a reasonable price? I would look into a trial run or a couple day passes to try it out to see if its something you'd like to do before you jump into something you aren't totally sure about.

loubidy · February 2014

I'm at my leisure center six days a week. Three days to go to body combat classes and three days to do my weight training program in the gym.

Would never keep this up at home, but my fitness class instructor knows me well (she's my sisters ex's mum so has seen my weight fluctuate over the years) and the PT who did my program checks up on me every so often. I now feel like I'd be letting more than myself down if I quit, it's given me so much more motivation.

shellbellnz · February 2014

I can pay for one session or a week or month etc. I think I will just pay for one session and see what I think. I am busting to go but I seem to have hurt my leg the last couple of days so I am trying not to run. It hurts a little to walk on but I think running or too much exercise could risk damaging it more and I don't want that. So fingers crossed it gets better over the next few days so I can go to the gym and try it. I am also slightly self conscious about going to the gym. I know its silly but its hard not to compare yourself to other people. I am pretty uncoordinated and don't want to be the oldest there.

JustT1m · February 2014

I perfer to workout at home. Plus the money you spend on weights or other equipment at least you have something more to show for it. Where as a gym membership all you have is what ever hard work you put into making you look better to show for the money spent.

ascrit · February 2014

Joining a gym can be helpful in encouraging you to try something different and/or break out of your routine. Many gyms have group exercise classes included in the membership fee. It could be fun for you!

wanzik · February 2014

I need the gym. I've tried working out at home and doing other things but something always seems to get in the way. When I go to the gym, that's my focus: working out. That time is reserved and I get my workout in. I also get my "reward," which is time in the steam room or dry sauna to relax. I also shower there - rarely shower at home. Saves a few bucks on the power bill anyway. I go after work and when I get home I can just relax. Usually...LOL! And then I sleep well.

People of all ages and clumsyness levels go to every gym I've been too. I would not let that self-conscious stuff hold me back. Try it and see if you like it.

Erin_goBrahScience · February 2014

For me personally I don't like to work out to videos or at home. I know several people who can and have had great success. I like going to the gym. I like being out of the house and the time I have in the gym. I like to people watch; seeing the guys lift and the strong women. I see a lot of the same people over and over.

But its only good for you if you will use it. If you find you are getting what you need at home why not keep with it?

ChaplainHeavin · February 2014

Personally, I don't like the gym at all. My wife set me up with a workout station in the basement. Padded carpet, HD TV, Nordic Track Skier and I love it. On the other hand, my wife goes to the gym, especially in the winter and is interested in the group workouts. During the summer she runs outside and just goes to the gym for strength training.

rmdaly · February 2014

I am better at getting to classes than doing workouts at home. I am sort of an introvert, so classes are great for me because I can sit in the back for a while before I start talking to someone. I have met some great people over the years at the gym.

I think its good to try one session and see if you like it. You might never feel comfortable. Also, if you do join, figure out what the cancellation policy is.

MostlyWater · February 2014

I find that I work out harder in a class setting, then on my own. We have fun and support each other too - and we do the Aids Walk and the Breast Cancer walks, which are fun.

If it's just for machines, that might not work for you. Find a place that you love, and it will be worth it! Will your health insurance pay for it?

Booksandbeaches · February 2014

I love my gym! I go there several times a week as does my husband. I exercise more now that I belong to a gym. Gotta get my money's worth. The gym has a lot of exercise classes for advanced to beginner. You can find just about any class at my gym. Pool aerobics to Insanity. But I don't do any of the group classes. I run or I do the other cardio machines, but mostly I run on the treadmill. The place I go to has everyone from young guys to senior citizens, so it's very welcoming to all.

EddieHaskell97 · February 2014

He's dead, gym. And I like mine very much. I go every other day for an hour. Totally worth it in the winter!

125KC · February 2014

i used to go to the gym...then I spent my money building my home gym.

I have everything I need, I can workout when I want, to whomever i want (DVD's etc.)

If I wake up at 3 am full of energy - which unfortunately I have done - 20 minutes of yoga relaxes me back to bed

I did enjoy the gym when I went, but I much more enjoy the freedom and variety of home.

I own an eliptical, a total gym, a wii, a step, lots of hand weights, dvd's and access to the internet for free workouts - most of which I got cheap or free from local sales - couple this with a big ol' tv, and what more could I want/need. My motivation comes from my goals and the almighty mirror.

Thinking of joining the gym - Is it worth it?

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