There are many pros and cons of working out at home. It’s more convenient, but you have to do the cleaning. You don’t have to worry about membership fees, but you do have to buy your gym equipment. That just means there are a few things to consider before starting a home workout routine.
Working out at home has become a popular option for many people. There are several reasons for this, including convenience and cost. With a home gym, you don’t have to travel to a separate location or deal with the crowds that can often be found at commercial gyms. In addition, you can usually get a quality workout at home for a fraction of the cost of a gym membership.
However, there are also some advantages to working out at a gym. First of all, you’ll have access to more equipment and facilities than you would at home. This can be especially important if you’re trying to work on specific areas of fitness or have specific goals in mind. In addition, commercial gym staff can provide guidance and support that can be helpful, especially if you’re new to working out.
With this in mind, we’ve listed 7 things worth considering when it comes to working out at home vs. the gym. There are a lot of benefits of working out at home, to go along with the disadvantages of working out at home. So, take a look at some of the pros and cons of working out at home.
1. It can be tough to stay focused when working out at home.
Even if you’re a bit of a loner at the gym, being around other jocks lifting and perspiring can be very motivating. Most people find themselves training alone at home.
So, if you’re planning on starting your own home gym it’s important to be aware that there are a lot of potential distractions. Here are a few tips to help you stay on track:
- Set up your space in advance. Make sure you have everything you need – water, a towel, your phone for music, etc.-within reach so you don’t have to keep getting up and interrupting your workout.
- Put on some headphones. This will help you tune out any background noise and really focus on your workout.
- Set a timer. Having a specific end goal in mind will help you push through any temptation to take a break.
- Get rid of any tempting screens. Put your phone away and turn off the TV so that emails and notifications won’t distract you. You may be alright with the TV going during your workout, but you definitely want your phone turned off.
- Focus on your breath. If your mind starts to wander, bring your attention back to your breath and the sensations in your body. This will help you stay in the present moment and fully engage in your workout.
The advantage of training at home
Some people find it much easier to tune in and get a better workout because they find less distractions at home. There’s no one wanting to talk while they’re trying to stay focused and count reps. At home there’s none of the constant background noises common to groups of people exercising in a gym. So, you might find a much more productive workout in the privacy of your own home.
2. You’ll need to be extra disciplined when working out at home.
There’s no one around to motivate you so you’ll need to be self-motivated. There are so many distractions and it can be easy to just lose motivation. However, there are a few things you can do to stay on track.
- Set realistic goals for yourself. It’s important to have something to strive for, but if your goals are too lofty you’re likely to get discouraged.
- Write down what you hope to accomplish each week, and then make sure that you complete all of your workouts.
- Create a schedule and stick to it. This will help you develop a routine and make it easier to find time for workouts.
- Find a workout partner. Having someone to work out with will make it more enjoyable and help you stay accountable.
- Be consistent and don’t give up if you have a bad day. Everyone has off days, but it’s important to keep going if you want to see results. discipline working out at home.
The advantage of training at home
Your gym probably won’t have as many machines and workout options as most modern gyms. Even though all that equipment is based on a trying to satisfy a lot of different people, they can be overwhelming. It’s easy to find yourself jumping from one type of exercise to another at a gym with no real discipline. You might find it much easier to follow a disciplined order and be consistent with your training at home.
3. You will need your own home gym equipment.
One of benefits of working out at the gym and paying monthly membership fees is to use the gym equipment. Of course, most of those people rarely use even a portion of all the equipment provided.
But, in any case, if you’re getting your workouts at home, you’re going to need to invest in your own equipment. What you choose will depend on your starting budget and your training goals.
But I can tell you, you’ll need to invest in some quality workout equipment- cheapo dumbbells from the dollar store aren’t going to cut it. Invest in a few key pieces of equipment that will last you a long time. Even if you’re looking for resistance bands, it’s a better investment to start with the best you can afford. The better the quality, the more you enjoyment, the better overall results, and the longer the life.
When you’re looking to invest in some quality equipment for your at-home gym, there are a few things you should keep in mind.
- Consider the space you have available. If you’re short on space, look for compact equipment that can be easily stored away when not in use.
- Think about your fitness goals. Are you looking to build muscles or lose weight?
- If you’re looking to lose weight, a rowing machine or exercise bike would be a good choice.
- If you’re looking to build muscle, free weights or a weight bench would be better options.
While it may be tempting to skimp on costs by buying cheap weights or second-hand cardio machines, this is often a false economy. Inferior equipment is more likely to break down, and it can also be dangerous, particularly if it is not used properly.
Furthermore, cheaply made equipment is often uncomfortable to use, making it less likely that you will stick to your workout routine.
Ultimately, investing in quality workout equipment is an investment in your health and well-being. While it may cost more upfront, it will pay off in the long run in terms of both your physical fitness and your peace of mind.
The advantage of training at home
One of the advantages of having your own home gym equipment, is merely that you can have exactly what you want and what serves your purposes. Maybe you aren’t keen on the cardio machine at the gym, so you purchase one that suits your needs to the T. Another real plus to some people, is the fact that you never need to worry about germs and viruses other people are leaving on the equipment used in a gym.
4. You’ll need a solid workout plan
Working out at home vs gym results could be the same without a solid workout plan. Either way, it’s easy to merely waltz around and waste a lot of time with no results to show for it.
Whether you work out at home or in a commercial gym, you need a plan if you expect results. There are a multitude of reasons people pay a monthly gym fee, but in reality, only a few reap the real benefits. That’s because when they go, it’s too easy to flit around from one station to the next for an hour.
If you’re investing money, space, and time in a place to get your workouts at home, why not get the most from it? To do that, you’ll need a solid workout plan.
Without a plan, it’s easy to slack off and not get a good workout in. Map out your workouts in advance so you know exactly what you need to do.
Main points to consider in your workout plan:
- How many days a week will you work out? Depending on where you are in your goals and fitness level 3-5 days a week is considered optimal.
- What days will you rest and what days to work out? First of all, you must have rest days for your muscles to recover and build new tissue. With that in mind, decide on what days you exercise and what days you rest.
- Decide exactly how long each session will be and what time. If you’re serious, it’s vital to set aside a definite time to start and finish your exercise session. This does not have to be the same every day, but you need a definite time for each day.
- If you’re new to working out, it’s a good idea to start with some basic cardio and strength-training exercises. These will help you get in shape and build up your endurance.
- Decide which muscle groups to work on which days. I prefer doing all my strength training on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. On Mondays and Fridays, I add in cardio on machines. Try dividing your strength days around these muscle groups:
- Chest and Back
- Quads and Hamstrings
- Arms and Shoulders
- Glutes and Abs
Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned body builder these workout charts are perfect for planning your workouts. They are big enough to hang on the wall and see while you’re exercising and make it much easier to follow a plan.
The advantage of training at home
You can design your own workout routine- when you work out at home, you’re in charge of your workout. You can tailor your routine to exactly what you want and need, which is great if you have specific fitness goals.
When it comes to a working a plan in the privacy of your own home gym, I find it easier. I think it’s important to keep a written journal. This way you never need to wonder if or how much you’ve progressed. I find this workout log book to be one of the best and easiest to use. And if you’re like me, it’s just easier to keep it by my side and write in it in the privacy of my own home.
5. You’ll need to be extra careful when exercising at home
I think most of us go about our way and never realized how many people get hurt to one degree or another at a gym.
These are some authenic statistics compilied by the National Libray of Medicine:
Overall, 2,873 cases were identified that specified the exact cause of injury associated with injuries that occurred at fitness facilities. Injuries due to overexertion were most common overall (36.2% of all cases), as well as the main cause of injuries related to general free weight activities (52.6% of this activity) and group exercise classes (35.9%). Crush injuries due to falling weights were common for all free weight activities. Falls and awkward landings were common causes of injuries during group exercise classes (28.5% and 25.8%, respectively). Trips and falls were common throughout facilities, as well as from cardiovascular equipment more specifically.
Working out is a great way to stay in shape and improve your overall health, but it’s important to do it safely. That means using the proper techniques and being careful with your form, especially when using gym equipment. Here are some tips to help you stay safe and avoid injuries when working out:
- Warm up before you start your workout. A warmup helps to loosen your muscles and get your body ready for physical activity.
- Pay attention to your form. When using gym equipment, be sure to use proper form. This will help you avoid injuries and get the most out of your workout.
- Use a spotter. If you’re lifting weights or using other equipment that could be dangerous, be sure to have a spotter. This person can help you if you get in trouble or have an accident.
- Don’t push yourself too hard. It’s important to challenging yourself when working out, but don’t overdo it. If you’re feeling pain or discomfort, stop what you’re doing and rest.
- It’s also important to listen to your body and take breaks when you need them. If you’re feeling pain or discomfort, stop what you’re doing and rest for a few minutes.
The advantage of training at home
I have never thought safety in gym enviroments are stressed enough. In your home gym it might be easier to really concentrate on safety since you’re never hurried to get through and move out of the way. When you’re training by yourself, it’s easier to take your time and think about form and being careful nothing falls on your foot, or neck.
6. Working out at home can save you money
For most people, the gym is a necessary evil. It’s a place where you go to sweat out the toxins from your system and get in shape. But one of the disadvantages of joining a gym is that it’s a place where you have to shell out hard-earned cash every month for the privilege of using the equipment. Wouldn’t it be great if there were a way to get all the benefits of the gym without having to pay those pesky membership fees?
One option is to invest in some quality at-home workout equipment. A few dumbbells and a top quality bench can go a long way, and you can always add more equipment as you need it. Another great way to get moving is to take advantage of the outdoors. After all, nature is free! Go for a run around your neighborhood or take a hike through your local park. And if you really want to save some money, there are tons of great exercise videos available online.
The advantage of training at home
I know that sometimes saving money can cause more problems than it fixes. So, I think working out at home vs a gym is going to take some thought on your part. First off, if you intend to buy much equipment you may not save a lot the first year. However, if you are dedicated to fitness at home, you should save quite a bit of money over the long run, even if you have a lot of nice home gym equipment.
7. You can work out any time it’s convenient
Even though some gyms now are open 24/7 it can still be tough to schedule time around comitments and work to get there. If you live in the city, it can take an hour out of your day just for travel time back and forth.
With no set class times or gym hours, you can work out whenever is convenient for you at home. That means no more having to rush to the gym after work or getting up super early to fit in a workout before your day starts.
You don’t have to worry about what you look like at home. One of the best things about working out at home is that you can do it in complete comfort. No need to worry about what you’re wearing or how you look, just focus on getting a good workout in!
The advantage of training at home
One of the great things about working out at home is that you can do it any time that’s convenient for you. You don’t have to worry about making it to the gym before it closes or getting a babysitter for your kids. With no set class times or gym hours, you can work out whenever is convenient for you. That means no more having to rush to the gym after work or getting up super early to fit in a workout before your day starts.
Conclusion
If you’re looking to start working out at home, there are a few things you need to keep in mind when designing your gym and workout plan.
There are a lot of pros and cons when it comes to working out at home vs paying for a gym membership. To tell you the truth, there’s not pat answer that fits everyone. Some people have trouble disciplining themselves at home, while others find it easier and more satisfying in the privacy of their surroundings.
In the end, the pros and cons of working out at home must be the decision you make for yourself. The most important part is to take a real interest in your fitness, body and looks.