Home Gym vs Gym Memberships

Paying for a gym membership vs purchasing equipment for a home gym Whether you are a fitness fanatic or just entering the world of fitness, finances can be a big influence on how regularly and where an individual works out. One common debate is whether to purchase a gym membership or buy home equipment. We take a look at the pros and cons of both sides of the debate to help you make the decision that is right for you - remember, everyone's fitness journey is different.

Paying for a gym membership

Pros

• Spread the cost

If you don’t have the finances to pay for gym equipment upfront, a gym membership can be a good alternative as you can often pay for your membership in monthly installments, rather than all at once.

• Facilities

If you live in a small building, whilst you may have room for a multi-station home gym, you will most likely not have space (or the budget) for other facilities you may find in the gym such as a pool or a room to complete sled exercises.

Cons

• Commute Even if you have a short commute to your gym, it wastes time you could be dedicated to your workout. Many people feel they do not have time to work out and a long commute may prevent individuals from feeling motivated to go to the gym.

• Less cost-effective Although with a gym membership you can make monthly payments, there are often hidden fees that come with a gym membership such as a joining fee and classes that you have to pay for in addition to your membership.

Paying for home equipment

Pros

• Better value

The average Australian spends $65 per month on a gym membership, whilst furnishing a home gym with weight training equipment may seem expensive, over the long-term you will save money.

• Tailor to your workout

There may be many pieces of equipment you never use. When creating your own health and fitness home gym, you can fill it with items you are confident you will use repeatedly, such as a barbell or medicine ball.

• Less intimidating

Many people avoid the gym as they are fearful of being judged and feel uncomfortable in the gym environment. With home equipment, such as free weights and a kettlebell, you can work out at your own pace from the comfort of your own home.

Cons

• Motivation

Some people struggle to find the motivation to push themselves to their limits when not with a personal trainer or in a gym class. To combat this, you may wish to invite friends to workout with you in your home gym.

• Less variety

Most home gyms will have less equipment than larger gyms, so workout options can be more limited. Home gym owners will have to create and learn different routines that can be completed on one piece of equipment, e.g. a functional trainer, to ensure they have a variety of workout routines and can exercise all areas of their body.

Hopefully, the above information will help you decide whether a home gym or a gym membership is the right option for you! For more information about home gym equipment, contact World Fitness Australia today!