Fitness at home is a cheap alternative to gyms …
Where does your fitness saga begin? At home or at the gym? The decision isn’t just about where to put your yoga mat – it’s about how you balance your health with your financial well-being.
From the cost of a dumbbell to the cost of a gym membership, every factor affects your wallet.
Choice 1: The Attraction Of The Gym
The cost of joining a gym may seem low on the face of it, with a monthly membership costing just a few dollars. However, to truly understand the cost of membership, we must go into more detail.
Membership Fees: The most apparent cost factor is the gym membership fee. This can range from as little as $10 a month to over $200 a month depending on the location, amenities, and reputation of the gym. The average gym membership cost in the U.S. is $58 a month, or almost $700 a year.
Initiation Fee: A lot of gyms will ask you to pay an initiation fee when you join. This can be anywhere between $20 and $300. However, there are some gyms that will waive the initiation fee during certain promotional periods.
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When these costs are added together over a period of 12 months or more, they can add up to a substantial amount. It’s important to read your contract carefully and understand all the costs involved to avoid any hidden costs.
Additional Class Costs: If you take specialized classes such as yoga, spinning, or pilates, you may be charged an additional fee. Fees can range from five to thirty dollars per class, which can add up quickly.
Not only do gyms offer scheduled classes, but they also provide a wide selection of top-of-the-line, professionally maintained equipment.
The range includes everything you need for weight training and cardio, providing a diverse workout experience that would otherwise be costly and difficult to replicate at home due to lack of space.
Locker and Towel Service: Some high-end gyms charge an additional fee for locker and towel services, which adds another ten to twenty dollars to your bill each month.
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Annual Maintenance Fee: In addition, some gyms also charge a yearly maintenance fee. This fee can range from $50-$100 per year.
Transportation Costs: Depending on how far away your gym is from your house or workplace, you’ll have to factor in transport costs.
If you drive, factor in fuel costs and any parking charges. If you use public transport, factor in that too.
Workout Gear: If you’re a regular gym-goer, you’re likely to spend a lot of money on top-of-the-line workout gear, trainers, and gym bags.
Choice 2: Create Your Fitness Oasis From The Comfort Of Your Own Home
Owning your home gym comes with a price tag that’s more expensive than a gym membership, but it’s also more flexible and can save you money in the long run.
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To get your home gym fully set up, you’ll need to consider a few things, including:
Fitness Equipment: This is the foundation of your home gym, and it can cost anywhere from $150 to $600 depending on the type and quality of equipment.
For weight training, you’ll want to invest in an adjustable dumbbell ($150- $500), a weight bench ($100- $300), and if space permits, a barbell-and-weight plate set ($200- $600).
For cardio, you can go for a cheap skipping rope ($10- $20) or a resistance band ($10- $50). But if you’re looking for a gym-level workout, consider investing in a treadmill ($500- $2000) or a stationary bike ($200- $1500).
Space: Your home gym space can also be a price tag, especially if you’re willing to give up another valuable space in your house.
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Flooring: Depending on what kind of exercise you’re planning to do and how heavy your equipment is, protective flooring may need to be installed.
Gym flooring or mats will cost you anywhere from $20 for an entry-level mat to $200+ for multi-tiered foam tiles to cover more ground.
Maintenance and Repair: While maintenance and repair aren’t an expense, there are moving parts on treadmills, stationary bikes, and free weights that require professional servicing.
Home fitness equipment can be expensive upfront, but if you invest in quality equipment and use it regularly, you’ll see a return on your investment in the long term.
With the abundance of free or low-cost fitness apps and online resources available, you’re able to save money you would otherwise spend on trainers or gym classes.
FAQs Related To Fitness At Home Is A Cheap Alternative To Gyms
Is it cheaper to go to a gym or make a home gym?
Depending on the type of equipment you choose, the cost of a home gym may be higher than the cost of an annual gym membership. However, you will save money over time as the cost of equipment is one-time only.
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Can a home gym replace a gym?
Home workouts are just as effective as going to the gym.
What is the cheapest way to get fit?
Losing weight, controlling blood sugar, lowering cholesterol, lowering blood pressure, and reducing stress can all be achieved by walking for 30 minutes daily.
- Suspension Trainer (TRX)
- Exercise balls
- Dumbbell/Kettlebell
- Calisthenic exercises
- Online exercise videos
Are gyms worth paying for?
The good news is that a gym membership can be a great investment. In fact, it can save you a lot of money over the long run, despite the initial sting of an extra dollar a month.
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How effective is a home gym?
It can work just as well as a workout at the gym.
Does a home gym increase value?
No
Is it OK to have a home gym?
Yes. Everyone gets plenty of exercise in a secure setting. It also eliminates the need for expensive or inconvenient child care.
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Does a home gym save time?
Yes. With a home gym, you don’t have to waste time driving to the gym and waiting for equipment to arrive.
Plus, you can use the home gym all day long. Instead of spending two to three hours in the gym each day (driving to the gym, getting ready, working out at the gym, driving home) you can fit chunks of your workout into your day.
Can you get in shape with at-home workouts?
Yes. Home workouts are designed to help you reach your exercise objectives (e.g. increasing strength or improving cardiovascular health) and improve your overall health.
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Can you get toned at home?
There are lots of ways to get your body in shape, all from the convenience of your own home.
A Word From GetMe Treated
The difference between a gym and a home workout comes down to your budget, space, fitness objectives, and the type of workout you’re looking for.
While gyms provide a huge selection of equipment and expert coaching, home workouts offer flexibility and the potential to save money in the long run.
By taking these factors into account, as well as the cost of the equipment you’re considering, you’ll be able to make a decision that’s right for your fitness and your wallet.
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Now, you should be able to say that, fitness at home is a cheap alternative to Gyms