Making the Choice: Home Gym vs. Gym Membership in Australia

In 2024, Australians are faced with a pivotal decision: Should they invest in a home gym or commit to a gym membership? The answer isn't one-size-fits-all; it hinges on factors like personal preferences, budget constraints, available space, and individual fitness goals. Let's delve into the pros and cons of each option to help you make an informed choice.

Home Gym:

Pros:

1. Convenience: Workout anytime without commuting, facilitating a consistent routine.
2. Privacy: Enjoy exercising in the comfort and seclusion of your own space.
3. Cost Over Time: While the initial setup may be costly, it proves economical in the long run compared to monthly gym fees.
4. Customisation: Tailor equipment selection to your unique fitness needs and aspirations.
5. No Waiting Time: Enjoy exclusive access to your workout equipment without having to wait.

Cons:

1. High Initial Cost: Quality equipment purchase can be pricey upfront.
2. Limited Social Interaction: Lacks the social atmosphere and camaraderie of a gym setting.
3. Space Requirements: Requires sufficient space to accommodate gym equipment.
4. Self-Motivation: Demands self-discipline and motivation to adhere to a consistent workout regimen.

Gym Membership:

Pros:

1. Variety of Equipment: Access to a diverse range of fitness equipment and classes.
2. Social Interaction: Opportunities to socialise, work out with friends, or join group classes.
3. Professional Guidance: Trained staff and personal trainers available for guidance.
4. Motivation: The gym environment can be motivating for some individuals.

Cons:

1. Monthly Fees: Regular monthly fees can accumulate over time.
2. Commute Time: Requires time and effort to travel to and from the gym.
3. Crowded Peak Hours: Some gyms may experience crowding during peak hours, leading to potential equipment wait times.
4. Less Privacy: Offers less privacy compared to home workouts.

Considerations:

1. Budget: Evaluate both initial setup costs and ongoing fees.
2. Space: Assess available space at home for gym setup.
3. Social Preferences: Consider whether you prefer the social aspect of a gym or the solitude of home workouts.
4. Fitness Goals: Determine which option aligns better with your specific fitness goals and preferences.

Let's Do the Math:

The average gym membership in Australia costs around $70 per month, excluding additional services like trainers or extra classes. However, statistics reveal that 23% of individuals don't utilise their memberships as anticipated, and 33% try multiple gym chains to find a suitable fit.

While the social aspect may be a significant draw for some, the primary reasons people go to the gym include improving general fitness (37%), weight loss (23%), muscle building (16%), and mental well-being (15%). Moreover, the majority engage in weightlifting (40%) and cardio (24%), while 16% participate in classes.

Let's see what we can create at home in the most efficient way possible, to cover off a majority of our work outs.

Home Gym Setup Options:

BASIC BELOW $1000:
At this price point, we are leaving the cardio to the outdoors, jog, walk, jump on that push bike you haven’t used in forever.
This setup is perfect for the big barbell movements and will cover you well in the future. If you’re looking to get through your compound movements this is for you. And best of all, this is a setup that can grow with you, the bench is future proof and just add the weights as you start to hit those new PR’s:

Next Fitness Utility FID Multi Bench - $349

Body Iron Squat Stand Reinforced E2 - $249

70kg Olympic Barbell & Bumper Plate Set - $349

Total: $947

VERSATILE BENCH AND DUMBBELL SET:
A bench and a dumbbell set, it's incredible everything you can do with these two items. And all of this will fit in under 2m2.  Again, this is the set up that can grow with you:

Next Fitness Utility FID Multi Bench - $349

Body Iron Adjustable Dumbbell Set 2 X 20KG with Rack - $649

Total: $998

HOME GYM:
If you just want something simple, to cover off 80% of your movements, a home gym is perfect. No need to think about what you're going to do, just select the weight and away you go. Great for beginners or families:

Next Fitness Home Gym NFHG-10888 - $1,099

ALL OUT HOME GYM:
If you want to set it up in one hit, no holding back, you want to replicate the gym expectancy at home the most efficient way possible. With this setup you get everything you need to complete your gym experience at home, and better yet all this will only need approx. 6m2. Combining a smith machine, squat rack and functional train unit all in one compact piece, it’s the only thing you need to get your workouts done, pair this with a great bench and some free weights and you have your own literal home gym.

Body Iron All-In-One Functional Trainer FT750 - $3,999

170kg Olympic Barbell & Bumper Plate Set - $699

Next Fitness Adjustable Bench MT8 - $379  

Body Iron Adjustable Dumbbell Set 2 x 32kg with Rack - $799

Total: $5,876

Breaking this home gym setup down; If you work out on average 3 times a week, for the year that’s $36.20 per workout. And the best part is it's designed to last a lifetime, you won't be upgrading anytime after this unit, but if the space allows and you want to spice it up you can then look at those specialty items to make your home gym extra nice.

Ultimately, the choice between a home gym and a gym membership hinges on individual preferences, lifestyle, and fitness goals. Whether you prioritise convenience, privacy, social interaction, or professional guidance, there's a solution tailored to your needs. By weighing the pros and cons alongside your personal considerations, you can embark on your fitness journey with confidence, whether at home or at the gym.