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2005/05/08, 11:54 PM
I work out with my 'home gym' which includes a barbell for bench, bar curl and squats (i have a squat rack etc.), dumbbells, a treadmill, enough weights etc. I saved up for all that stuff and have had it for years now. I can do pretty much whatever freeweight exercise there is.
However, I often get bored with my exercises and often take too long to complete them because I'm either not into exercising due to boredom or lack of energy. Not always but sometimes. I definitely view exercising as a chore and have since I started seven years ago, so I don't see that changing. Furthermore, my results have been less than stellar.
I'm currently cutting my bodyfat and after that I was contemplating joining a gym because i figure I might have better results because there is more variety in exercises so maybe I won't get so bored and maybe I will wind up with better results. I also figure it might be faster to do in a gym because my dumbbells etc. are collared, and it takes time to change the weights for reps, or from one exercise to another, as where the gyms, for example, usually have straight weight bars.
However, I'm aware the only new thing the gym can really offer me is machines, and I know they are not as effective as freeweights (by the way are there ab machines with weights in gyms so I don't constantly have to do weighted cruches?).
I am also aware of the phenomenon of Gym Asswipes- those guys who think they are real cool, they are usually big and thus think they own the place and wind up bullying others (I've never been bothered by these people and doubt I would be, but I don't wanna be around that negative environment).
I also don't have anyone to join with, and I don't know how awkward it would be to go by myself without a spotter or just wandering around like a newbie.
So, I was wondering if you think joining a gym would be worth the investment, or are the freeweights I have in my house all that's necessary? I'm not looking to blow money on something i don't need. If you're pro-gym, which gyms are the best and what is the best time to go if you're looking for it to be as empty as possible?
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2005/05/09, 03:03 AM
Take a break...couple of weeks...get your mind clear...excuses are excuses...making you join a gym won't change how you view this lifestyle...
machines used in combination with free weights can be very useful..
I would stick to bodyweight and freeweight ab exercises....
going to a gym can be a chore also...drive/walk there...having to wait for equipment....etc...it can be a hassle also...so I don't think it's necesarily something that will completely change how you approach lifting....like I said take a week or two off...and do other things you enjoy...there was a reason you started lifting perhaps you need some time off to find it again...or perhaps find a few new ones....
gyms are usually empty during the midday part....morning and evening are usually the busy times...very late (if gyms are open are also pretty empty)
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2005/05/09, 07:02 AM
Reasons for working out at home:
1. Not having to wait for equipment
2. Can put on whateverever music you want (well I suppose you could take an Ipod/MP3 to the gym)
3. You can workout when your dinner is cooking in the oven
4. You can be as noisy as you like
5. Can workout without being bothered by idiots (except for your family)
6. If your washing machine malfunctions, you can take a minimalist approach to gym attire, without being arrested
Having said all that, I even though I love working out, sometimes I get bored so sometimes I workout at home, and sometimes at the gym - the variety helps to keep me motivated.
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2005/05/09, 10:31 AM
I love working out at home because I can walk in take off my suit and get it over with ASAP - and most of the reasons of princess.
I used to go to the gym a lot, mostly once you've been going a while people recognise you and say hello, spot you and whatever which is good.
But I always found the best bit was girls in lyca, great motivator! - sorry girls.
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2005/05/09, 10:32 AM
I love working out at home because I can walk in take off my suit and get it over with ASAP - and most of the reasons of princess.
I used to go to the gym a lot, mostly once you've been going a while people recognise you and say hello, spot you and whatever which is good.
But I always found the best bit was girls in lyca, great motivator! - sorry girls.
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2005/05/09, 12:06 PM
Home Gym vs Going to the Gym
Home Gym:
1)You can choose how late the gym stays open.
2)You are not rushed, unless you have kids.
3):( you can be easily tempted to stop if not srong willed
4)What princess said. Go Girl!
5):( There are some distractions, TV, doorbell, phone, the list can go on but I will leave it at that.
Going to the Gym:
1)You get to ask someone if you are doing this right.
2):( Sweat left on the machine from last person. YUCK
3)A variety of workout equip.
4)You can see the results of other people hard work. Great to help motivate you. " ooo I want a six pack like that or I need biceps like that." you catch my drift.
5):( Machine you need or like might be out of order.
The list goes on, and on and on. . .:)
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There is only one way... to get anybody to do anything. And that is by making the other person want to do it.
Dale Carnegie 1888-1955, American Author, Trainer
\\"Motivation is what gets you started. Habit is what keeps you going.\\"
Jim Rohn
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2005/05/09, 12:35 PM
I really admire you people who work out and keep working out at home. It just never worked for me.
My monthly fee that I pay each month "motivates" me as much, if not more, than anything else to get to the gym. I also enjoy getting out of the house. The sheer quantity and variety of equipment with more new equipment constantly coming in keeps me interested. Oh yeah - gotta like the sauna too. :)
My biggest complaint is the seasonality and parking situation. I have a sense of ownership like I deserve the best parking place since I have been going consistently since December. When the New Years resolution and now - summer in 8 week - rush come in and drone around and consume "MY" parking place, it really annoys me.
I guess that's a plus for home gyms - parking.
Oh well...
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_Shane
I dont have to outrun the bear - just you....
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