Worked out my gym cancelation two months back - learn how I've maintained my physical fitness at home
In the past two months, I've embarked on a new fitness journey, one that has seen me bid farewell to the gym and embrace home and outdoor workouts. This change, prompted by a house move, has proven to be more than just a shift in location – it's been a transformation in my approach to fitness.
The decision to cancel my gym membership was not an easy one, but the savings of $70 a month have been a welcome bonus. However, the real appeal lies in the benefits that home and outdoor workouts offer.
Home workouts, for instance, provide a level of convenience and time-saving that is hard to match. With no commuting needed, I've found myself with more time to spare, which I've used to incorporate exercise into my daily routine. The cost-effectiveness is another advantage – no more gym membership fees and potentially lower equipment costs.
Exercising in the comfort of my own home also offers a level of privacy and comfort that I've come to appreciate. Working out in a personal space can help reduce self-consciousness and increase comfort, which has made my workouts more enjoyable. The flexibility in scheduling is another plus – I can work out whenever it fits my day.
Home workouts have also helped me maintain consistency, a key factor in fat burning and muscle building. With the barrier to start being lower, I've found it easier to stick to a routine. Cleanliness is another advantage – I control the hygiene of my environment.
Outdoor movement, such as running, walking, and hiking, has become a bigger part of my weekly routine. While less explicitly detailed in the results, the benefits include exposure to fresh air and natural sunlight, potentially improving mood and vitamin D levels. The variety of terrain and natural resistance can also enhance balance and endurance.
The gym, with its diverse equipment and motivating environment, does have its appeal. It offers a social place, where interactions with people and trained staff for advice on form and equipment handling can be invaluable. However, for me, home and outdoor workouts have proven to be more suitable for my lifestyle.
I've been focusing on progressive overload with a mix of bodyweight exercises and a kettlebell, and have even started doing Pilates and yoga regularly. There are various types of home workouts available on platforms like YouTube, TikTok, Instagram, and workout apps.
Despite missing the social aspect of the gym, I've found that outdoor movement has done as much for my mind as my body. The author of this article has enjoyed being gym-free and reaping the benefits of home and outdoor workouts.
It's important to note that the gym can make a difference for those recovering from injuries, working with personal trainers, training for specific competitions, or needing access to expensive or impractical equipment. The best choice depends on personal circumstances, motivation, and fitness goals.
In summary, home and outdoor workouts offer greater convenience, cost savings, privacy, and flexibility, supporting consistency in exercise, while gyms typically offer a wider range of equipment and social/motivational environment. The best choice depends on personal circumstances, motivation, and fitness goals.
I've discovered that integrating science-backed exercise routines, such as Pilates, yoga, and bodyweight workouts, into my home-and-garden setting has helped me enhance my health-and-wellness and lifestyle. Furthermore, I've found that the lifestyle of fitness-and-exercise, practiced in a home-and-garden environment, is often more compatible with my preferences and needs compared to the gym setting.
