I cannot remember the last time I worked out in a commercial gym. It was probably around 2004 when I got married and we set up a really sweet gym in our Michigan home. I must say I don’t miss going to the gym. I enjoy the flexibility of working out in the privacy of my home. I have a nice set-up, albeit a smaller space than I had in Michigan. I have enough weight to be able to super-set most exercises, and I don’t have to get in the car and drive to the gym. There are many reasons for me to lift at home.
Positives:
1. No one else in the gym. Having worked as a fitness trainer for years, I have a tendency to notice what others are doing wrong. The inclination is to want to slip into professional mode and offer instruction. It is distracting.
2. I control the music. I have my mix and I and rock-out to my one tunes.
3. I don’t have to rely on a training partner. While I have had a handful of reliable training partners over the years, they have been few and far between. At home, I am not dependent upon another’s schedule.
4. There is not wait for lifting stations. I can plan my workouts without interference. I don’t have to wait or adjust my workout, because someone is hogging the rack. I can hog the rack.
5. The gym is always open. The hours are 24-7. That can’t be beat.
6. The membership rates are the best around. Even better than the $9.99/month gyms, the cost of working out at home is cheap. Sure, I can spend more on equipment (and I have expanded over time), but the initial investment does not have to be great. I have had most of my equipment for nearly 14 years. If I joined a $9.99 gym, I would have spent a minimum of $1678 over the years (probably more like 3 grand or more with “maintenance fees”). While I have spent more than that (still less than $5,000), I could do much of what I do with less—and I don’t have to deal with crowds (specifically, overcrowding—such gyms expect not to come). The longer I use the gym, the greater the savings.
Negatives:
1. No one else is in the gym. I have to live without a spot or external motivator. I am pretty self-motivated. As for safety? I just try not to be stupid. I use sensible weights and set my safety racks.
2. In don’t have a training partner. Personally, for the reasons stated above, this is not a negative. I understand, though, that it can be for some.
3. I have to clean the gym. But, heck, it is my sweat.
If you are considering a home gym, I say “go for it!” Start simple and build. Start with a simple power rack, Olympic bar with sufficient plates, adjustable dumbbells (these can hold more than 150 pounds), and an adjustable bench. Add weights and attachments as you get stronger (from using your gym!). There are also many DIY options for versatility.
Be your best today; be better tomorrow.
Carpe momento!