Increased awareness of the adverse effects of a sedentary lifestyle has contributed to the adoption of various exercising strategies. Other than engaging in sports and games, most people nowadays exercise at various gyms or do home-based exercise. The idea is to increase physical activity that improves overall well-being (Bentlage et al. 2). However, people are caught in the dilemma of exercising at the gym or exercising at home. Both options have benefits and downsides that deserve thorough analysis before making the final decision. While exercising at the gym boosts morale, exercising at home is more beneficial as it is convenient, saves time, and eliminates anxiety.
There is no doubt exercising from home is convenient compared to working at the gym. First, while exercising at home, one does not have to set a specific time for a workout as it is at the gyms. Once an individual has all the facilities for exercising, anytime can be a workout time. Again, there is no sharing of facilities that always brings about the competition at the gym. Working out at home gives one the freedom to exercise at any time of the day or night using any preferred tool (Bentlage et al. 12). For individuals with families, exercising at home is more advantageous as it allows parents to be close to their children. The entire family can as well have a workout routine, which improves relationships, health, and fitness.
Another notable difference between working out from home and at the gym is the cost. The monthly or daily fee paid at the gym can be costly in the long run since physical exercise is not a one-time activity. The worst part of it is when the payment is monthly, quarterly, or yearly, yet the individual only goes there occasionally. Therefore, working out at home saves money as it only requires finances for building a room and buying the equipment only. Once everything is bought, the owner enjoys unlimited service anytime she wants. With just a one-time lump sum cost, the facility serves the entire family and even friends for a long time for free. Thus, exercising at home saves money that can be used for other crucial needs.
Lastly, exercising at home is more advantageous than working out at the gym as there is no anxiety related to interaction with strangers. Home-based gyms offer privacy and confidentiality, which most people seek but cannot get at the gym. The majority of the people do not enjoy being at the gym, which contributes to a lack of morale. Again, not everyone is comfortable exercising in front of others due to low self-esteem (Bentlage et al. 14). Thus, to avoid feeling uncomfortable, home-based exercising gives an opportunity to do this at one’s own comfort level. Additionally, for individuals who sweat so much while working out, exercising at home provides a chance to wear scanty and light clothes that would otherwise be uncomfortable wearing at the gym.
Overall, working out is essential for staying healthy and keeping fit. Although one can either work out at the gym or at home, there are more benefits to exercising at home. Working out at home is convenient as there is no traveling and crowds, and this allows a family to spend time together. Importantly, a home-based gym eliminates anxiety for individuals who do not enjoy or feel comfortable exercising with other people. Therefore, home-based exercise saves money and is convenient and comfortable compared to working out at the gym.
Work Cited
Bentlage, Ellen, et al. “Practical Recommendations for Maintaining Active Lifestyle During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Systematic Literature Review.” International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, vol. 17, no. 17, 2020, pp. 2-22.