Fitness

Gym Workouts vs. Home Workouts: Pros & Cons

The importance of regular exercise can’t be understated. The key to sticking with a fitness plan is finding one that fits into your lifestyle. For some guys, home workouts might be all they have time for. For others, nothing beats the gym environment. To help you decide on whether home workouts or gym workouts are for you, we’ve compiled this handy list. Use it to find the best workout plan for your schedule.

Advantages of Home Workouts

Greater Convenience: The chance to work out without the effort and bother of visiting a gym can make you more likely to stick to an exercise plan; if your gym or health club is too far to reach conveniently, you may soon find yourself skipping workouts. Having the means to enjoy a great workout – right in your own home –  makes you more likely to workout (and do it more often). Home workouts also allow you to take supplements at your leisure – no more rushing to mix your post-workout shake after a session at the gym.

Less Cost and Expense: The high cost of membership fees associated with a gym can really put a strain on your budget. With the one-time-only investment in the equipment, materials and programs needed to enjoy a great home workout, you can get in some exercise without breaking the bank. For a frugal workout option, your home can’t be beat.

Increased Comfort and Privacy: Having to perform your workout or exercise routine in a crowded public space can feel overwhelming, espcially for the novice or newcomer. Getting the same workout without prying eyes can give you a greater measure of comfort. If you have difficulty with the crowds you find in a gym, your home can offer an ideal solution.

Advantages of Gym Workouts

Access to a Larger Selection of Equipment and Fitness Options: A modern and well equipped gym can offer you the chance to make use of equipment that would never fit into your budget or home. For the chance to make use of a wider variety of work out options and equipment, a trip to the gym trumps even the most lavish home workout setups. Gyms make it a lot easier to change up your workouts every few weeks; this variety helps to challenge and strengthen your muscles. “How to Change Up Your Workout” offers some advice on keeping your workouts interesting.

Classes, Formal Instruction and Personal Trainers: The social environment of a gym brings plenty of advantages. Enrolling in a class can give you the chance to work out with others, helping you to stay motivated. Formal instruction or one on one attention can ensure that your workout is well designed and able to fit give you the best results possible. Having someone to hold you accountable can keep you motivated and help you overcome plateaus.

Enjoying a Culture of Fitness: Just being around other people can help you meet your goals. Networking, inspiration and new ideas are all more easily found in a gym then at home. Staying connected with those around you can give you a number of ways to help reach your fitness goals.

Consider your goals and needs carefully to determine which approach has the most to offer you. For a lot of guys, a combination of the two workout types can help them reach their goals. Whatever route you decide to take, rest assured you’ll be well on your way to better health.