It is interesting to study the many different ways people choose to workout. Some can simply step out the front door and go for a walk or run with nothing but a pair of sneakers. Others need an iPod or running group to keep them motivated. Working out at a gym is often an option because people like the variety of classes, equipment, and the motivation of being surrounded by similarly motivated people.
Others look at the gym as a place that is crowded, smelly, and expensive. They prefer to workout at home and create an environment for themselves that is all their own, where they can be confident and at ease.
It doesn’t matter which you prefer as long as your surroundings keep you motivated and on schedule to work out when you are supposed to . . . without distractions.
Let’s take a look at the gym option first. Many of us belong to gyms currently that make us happy and fulfill our needs; however, if you don’t like your current situation or you want to join a gym and never have made the commitment before . . . here are a few things you should keep in mind before you sign on the dotted line.
First decide what is necessary for you. Think about:
* Do I need the bells and whistles of pools, saunas, spas, nutrition bars, child care and other up scale amenities?
* Does the gym meet my personal proximity criteria? (This is a personal test that helps decide if the gym is close enough) – If you have to drive far out of your way to attend, there is a higher likelihood of skipping it when you lack motivation.
* Am I going to go before or after work? – Maybe lunchtime is a good time to go for you.
* What are the facilities’ hours? Am I a morning/night person? – Be sure that the facility is open during the hours you need.
Next, ask friends and family where they exercise. – Odds are they like the facility they belong to and can tell you the pros and cons. They also should tell you about current promotions that you could take advantage of.
All of these factors should be considered.
Make sure you visit the facility you are considering. Take advantage of free trial memberships. If there a few gyms in the running… try all the free trial memberships in a row. 4 gyms that offer 1 week trial memberships = 1 month of free exercise.
During the visits look for things like:
* Is there an initiation fee?
* What are the rates/dues for membership?
* What is the age of the facility?
* How clean is the facility (especially the weight room, locker rooms and showers)?
* How old is the equipment?
* How many of the machines are “out of service”?
* What is the typical clientele?
* Is there music in the background?
* If so, is it too loud or not the type you like?
* Note the hours it is crowded and quiet.
* Are there certified personnel available if you have questions?
* What is the overall attitude in the gym?
After you have assessed these questions, it should be easy to make the right decision for your needs.
What if you are going to workout at home? If you have the choice of a separate room, it would be optimal if it is at least 10’ x 10’, well ventilated and has enough height and width to move without restriction. It is also important to note the structure of the ground or floor boards. Be sure the floor can handle the stress of any impact that may occur and that it is properly protected in areas where weights may drop or equipment may sit.
If you have a small budget I suggest:
* Stability ball
* Dumbbells from 5 – 25 lbs.
* A mirror big enough to see you full body during most basic exercises
* Tubing
* Floor/abs mat
If you have a little extra money in the sock drawer I would include:
* A piece of cardiovascular equipment (treadmill, bike, elliptical)
* Weight bench or step bench
* Original sets of dumbbells and add 30 –50 lbs.
* Balance board, pillows, bosu or foam roller (not all but at least one would be nice)
Making sure the environment you plan to workout in is motivating, easy to get to and simple to use is truly the most important aspect of any exercise program. If you hate where you have to go, you will never go there. If you make your surroundings fun, energetic, and accessible you are more likely to stick to your program for the long haul.
That is the key to ACHIEVING YOUR GOAL.
