Can you lose more weight in a gym than at home? Not having ever stepped foot in a gym until a few weeks ago, I had no idea. Let me tell you what I think now, and then I’ll ask about your own experiences.
Several years ago I reached a point where I knew I had to do something, and quick. None of my clothes fit and my weight topped out at 175. If I didn’t do something right away I was sure I would reach 200 pounds. That is when I joined Curves, a gym geared towards women of all ages and sizes.
The Curves workout routine motivated me and helped me to lose 15 pounds. Due to financial reasons I had to leave Curves after a year and a half but was able to keep my weight where it was. Once at home I began to power walk, do crunches, pushups and use hand weights. With this routine I became much thinner and felt healthier than I had in years. When winter hit the power walking slowed down and the pounds began to creep on again. It was time for something new.
Just a few weeks ago I discovered our local Jewish Community Center, or JCC. They have an outdoor pool and three indoor pools, a sauna, steam room and most importantly, a gym. With great trepidation I walked in to the gym, feeling like a fish out of water. Would people stare at me or make fun of me? I hesitantly sat on an exercise bike and began to pedal.
The beauty of my gym membership is that my corporate discount allowed me to join as a family. While my daughter swims, my boys and I march straight to the gym. Having someone there to motivate you does wonders. I began to feel more comfortable and now float around from machine to machine after a good 25 minute cardio session.
What differences have I noticed? You can certainly work out your muscles at home, but not as well as you can with a large variety of gym machines at your disposal. I am sore and it feels great! My back muscles are tight; I am losing flab under my arms and can flex an arm muscle that makes me proud. Why didn’t I join a gym years ago?
My take so far? You can absolutely do more in your workout in a gym than at home. That doesn’t mean you can’t lose weight and get fit in a home environment. It just means that with my personality type, the gym is the way to go.
Have you ever worked out in a gym? What was your own experience? Which is better – a gym or a good home workout?
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I loved this article! Working out at home is a good way to get started and gain confidence, but a gym can challenge your body so much more.
Lori
Good article. I do like the gym but find I procrastinate as well.
Good question. I thought I could lose more weight at home, using wii and at home bike but many of my co workers feel they do better at gym. More options and less chance of getting bored.