There are many different ways to get fit, so it can be tricky to figure out the best route for you. If you’re unsure whether to invest in a home gym or get a gym membership – you’re in the right place. Here, we’ll explore the advantages and disadvantages of having to choose a home gym to help you make the right decision.
Home gym: The advantages
Exercise when you want
Most gyms have opening and closing times, meaning you need to work out within that timeframe. But if you have your own exercise space at home, you can work out whenever you want. Whether that’s at the crack of dawn, midday or in the middle of the night is up to you.
No waiting around
Have you ever made the effort to get to the gym, get changed and plan a workout, only to realise that the equipment you need is being used by someone else? It’s a bummer. When you have your own gym equipment at home, you don’t need to wait around for other people to finish using it.
Tailor it to your interests
Do you love rowing? Cycling? Running? Lifting weights? Whatever your interests, you can make your home gym completely bespoke – investing in equipment that will help you achieve your fitness goals. This gives you the opportunity to get specialist gear that a gym might not have.
Freedom to try new things
In the gym, you may not feel quite so confident to try new things or push yourself to get that PB for fear of failure in front of your fellow gym-goers. The benefit of working out at home is that you can experiment and push yourself without worrying about people watching – it’s a totally judgement-free zone.
Home gym: The disadvantages
Easier to get distracted
The gym is a space dedicated to exercising. When you’re there, you can focus on getting your workout done. It’s fair to say if you’re in your own home there’s way more distractions – which can lead to reduced motivation. You’re more likely to binge another episode of that Netflix series, grab a snack or call your mate for a chinwag.
Equipment is expensive
Certain types of gym equipment come with a hefty price tag, so it’s important to carefully consider the costs before deciding whether to set up a home gym. Think about the types of equipment you need as this will dictate the overall cost – for instance, treadmills, static bikes and rowing machines will be more expensive than yoga mats, small dumbbells and resistance bands.
It’s less social
One of the great things about gyms is they’re social; you have the opportunity to meet likeminded people or work out with friends. Not only is this a great way to socialise, but also means you’re more likely to stay motivated. This sense of community is lost if you work out at home, as the chances are, you’ll be doing it alone more often than not.
Takes up a lot of space
Another key thing to consider is the space that home gym equipment will take up. If you don’t have enough space in the garage or a spare room you could turn into a gym, you’ll need to ask yourself if it’s feasible to create a workout area. This really depends on the type of exercise you want to do and the size of equipment you need.
Will you choose a home gym or go for a gym membership?