Gyms...

While I don't relate to any of these scenarios (except perhaps #3), I wonder whether you're looking for people who do to commiserate with or whether you're looking for suggested solutions.

@ninerbuff gave you a good one. Bodyweight exercises/calisthenics outdoors is also an option.

AnnPT77 wrote: »

MaltedTea wrote: »

While I don't relate to any of these scenarios (except perhaps #3), I wonder whether you're looking for people who do to commiserate with or whether you're looking for suggested solutions.

@ninerbuff gave you a good one. Bodyweight exercises/calisthenics outdoors is also an option.

Or trying to sell something, as the next step? (Yeah, I'm an old cynic.)


No, I don't really relate.

If seeking solutions, are their outdoor options where you are, not in gyms: Walking, running, hiking, skating, outdoor gams, hiking, biking, open water swimming, canoeing, kayaking, rowing, . . . ? Some of those do cost more than the $10 a month low-end gyms, but some are very inexpensive.

This really does sound gimmicky.....

In the chance that it's not, no, I don't relate 100% either. If you are looking for solutions, C25k is great. Jeff Gallowy is also a great running coach. If running isn't your thing, try getting a bike. There's also a ton of different youtube workout videos to help.

kate6652 wrote: »

Does anyone here relate to the following scenarios:
1) you find gyms scary, uncomfortable, and intimidating.
2) gym memberships are inaccessible to you (too pricey etc).
3) you would simply rather exercise at home.
4) you do not have space for tons of workout equipment in your home.
5) you want to get into strength training but are unsure where to start.

#1 I used to, but last year I mustered the courage to join a gym, and my only regret is not having done it much sooner.
#2 I found a good low-cost local gym. No perks or luxuries, but it has all that I need.
#3 I can still exercise at home if and when I want to.
#4 True, I don't. But I have a mat, some resistance bands, and a pair of dumbbells. That gives me plenty to work with. Plus, like some suggested, bodyweight exercises are great. And walking outside is great too.
#5 My gym has a sort of "beginner's workout plan" that I used for guidance. And then there are lots and lots of good resources online, from MFP to YouTube to other websites. It's a learning process and it can be very rewarding, if you give it a chance.

kate6652 wrote: »

Does anyone here relate to the following scenarios:
1) you find gyms scary, uncomfortable, and intimidating.
2) gym memberships are inaccessible to you (too pricey etc).
3) you would simply rather exercise at home.
4) you do not have space for tons of workout equipment in your home.
5) you want to get into strength training but are unsure where to start.

1) No
2) No
3) Yes
4) Yes, but I have a stationary bike, dumbells, bench, mat, resistance bands, and yoga ball, plus a Rubbermaid step stool for step ups. I have to sometimes do a bit of rearranging depending on what I want to use, but it really doesn't take up much space at all.
5) No

I used to feel that way, but earlier this year started a trial for an online subscription service - access to gym workouts, lots of variety and I can pick and choose what I feel like doing.
It still costs a little, but less than a gym.
And I have been surprised how much I love it. I have never worked out this regularly before (5 months in now), and definitely never enjoyed exercise for exercises sake - it was just a chore that I would put off if I could.

I don't have a lot of space, but push the coffee table aside in my living room. I have a few weights now that I keep behind the couch.

As much as I like the idea of camaraderie at the gym with other members, I actually always felt awkward and self-conscious, so just getting it done at home on my own works for me. I focus more on the workout and get a lot more out of it.

Exercise dvds or videos
Exercise bands
A few dumbells
Exercise ball
Jump rope
Outdoor exercises
🚲🏸⛹🏽‍♀️🚶‍♀️🏓⛸

Not going to be intimidated by something like a gym.....because people there are usually in their own routines.... or looking at much younger people! haha!
My gym is the YMCA, so my membership helps my community, as well as is reasonable. I value having access to many different types of strength machines, and cardio equipment. I don't do much in the free weights area.
I can still do workouts at home, as I did for much of last year. Truthfully, just getting there gets me over the hump, as there isn't anything else to do but workout at the gym, so I don't get distracted by things at home. Plus, sometimes I am inspired by others who are invested in their own fitness.
The staff should provide a beginning orientation, and then you can get a followup if you request it. All the staff is not that "expert", but can provide some helpful feedback, and useful "how-to's" with new equipment, etc.

I would much rather exercise at home, I don't like the gym at all. The gym is often for people who don't have the motivation to train at home. I can train at home and put in much more efforts than when i'm at the gym.

Next year i'm investing in a home gym when I move to a new place.

My workout of choice is weight lifting, and I don't have the space at home to setup my own lifting area, let alone the money to actually fill such a space! Plus it's nice having somebody else nearby to act as a spotter the rare time I lift close to my max.

1) you find gyms scary, uncomfortable, and intimidating. no
2) gym memberships are inaccessible to you (too pricey etc). no
3) you would simply rather exercise at home. not necessarily. i finding getting up, dressed, and going there to be motivation
4) you do not have space for tons of workout equipment in your home. seeing as i have 3 unused rooms in my house i cant say i dont have enough room
5) you want to get into strength training but are unsure where to start. not true


what are you selling. we are not interested

OP has not returned in two weeks, so I guess we'll never know. :shrugs: