I don’t hate the gym, bootcamps, running, or anything else that helps others get fit. I would never be so arrogant to tell you that those things don’t work. They totally do. There are lots of ways to get fit.
Bottom line: Whatever workout you will do with consistency WORKS.
But just in case you’ve never tried it before, or you’ve had a situation in your life change that has changed your regular fitness routine, these are the 5 factors that make working out at home the best option for me.
It takes less time.
I have a husband in full-time ministry, two children, a business, and two ministries that fall under my daily tasks. I cut time corners whenever possible. So eliminating driving to the gym, dropping kids off, putting stuff in the locker room, & general small talk, I can gain back almost a full hour in my day by commuting only to my garage.
I can do the workout I want when I want.
I love fitness classes & interaction. When I worked out at the gym, I based my workout schedule around my favorite instructors & preferred classes. Now, I can have my favorite trainers & formats on my schedule via my DVD player.
It eliminates the temptation of comparison & competition.
With a history of anorexia & compulsive over-exercise, I was blown away by the improvement with my mental struggles by simply ridding myself of the temptation to compare. I work out in my garage with my messy hair under a hat & no make-up on. My focus is on my workout & being stronger than I was yesterday – not doing more than the girl standing next to me.
That being said, I love the camaraderie of working out in a group, which is why my monthly online challenge groups are a must for me. When one succeeds, we all succeed.
P.S. I realize not everyone may not have this struggle in a gym environment. Just keeping it real from my perspective.
It’s brainless.
Due to my previously mentioned schedule, I work out at 5am. (I completely operate on the “workout before your body knows what’s happening” principle!) Though I am perfectly capable of creating my own workout, I choose to let another fitness expert tell me exactly what to do so I use my creativity elsewhere in my day.
It’s cost effective.
Add costs for child care/gym memberships/class costs/gas to drive there, etc., and often, there ends up being more money coming out of pocket than we initially realize. I prefer paying for a holistic program that covers a comprehensive workout & meal plan that work together for optimal results. Plus, I’m all about making a long-term investments vs. a monthly fees where my degree of usage by month may vary.
So in closing – gym-goers, cross-fitters, yogis, runners – we’re all on the same team, and I salute you!
What’s your favorite reason to work out at home?
