Should You Invest In A Gym Membership This Summer?
With summer in full swing, many people are choosing gyms rather than sweating it out in the hot sun. States such as Texas, have average temperatures in the high 90’s during the summer! Furthermore, summer brings rainstorms that can make it unsafe for athletes to exercise outside. These often-unpredictable conditions can certainly persuade someone to forego a workout under the hot sun for an air conditioned one.
However, gym memberships are oftentimes costly. Additionally, you might be someone that enjoys your exercise time alone. Lastly, if you’re unfamiliar with difficult gym equipment, you might injure yourself causing long-term harm, in addition to the risk of medical malpractice. . .
Learn more about your options to stay fit this summer:
Working Out Outdoors
Many athletes prefer working out outdoors because not only is it free, but they can also fit it into their daily schedule whenever they’d like. Many committed outdoor runners will agree that nothing beats running in nature at whatever time they choose. Most likely, an outdoor run will also burn the most calories and be the most effective way to exercise.
There are also several downsides to working out outside. In certain states, it can be sunny one minute and pouring rain the next. No one wants to go for a run and be caught in a storm, mid-run. Furthermore, the heat of the sun can not only be dreadful, but it can also cause permanent skin damage and dehydration. Additionally, if you are exercising outside, close to other vehicles, you risk being involved in a car accident with a driver that doesn’t see you or wasn’t paying attention. Outdoor workouts can be dangerous.
Working Out At The Gym
In contrast to exercising outdoors, gyms have air conditioning and drinking water readily available whenever you need it. You won’t have to fear a driver not seeing you, and you’ll be surrounded by many people that can help you if you fall or injure yourself. Gyms also typically offer several classes with a wide range of equipment, so you’ll be able to complete a different workout each trip. Many people swear that by signing up for a gym membership and taking regular classes makes them feel accountable for fitness and are less likely to take a rest day.
Possibly the biggest reason why people are opposed to gym memberships is the cost. Gyms sometimes offer deals, but nevertheless, the cost of a membership can be a costly monthly burden. Additionally, some gyms aren’t open 24/7 – this means that your gym might not be open when you want to exercise and not fit your schedule. Lastly, as opposed to just stepping outside your house to work out, you’ll have to get ready, drive to the gym, and then back, which can waste time.
Alternative: Stay At Home!
A great alternative to working out outside or investing in a gym membership is working out at home! There are plenty of free ways that you can break a sweat at home without breaking the bank. Although you probably won’t have the space of the great outdoors or the variety of equipment in a gym, you still have several great options depending on what your exercise of choice is.
YouTube offers plenty of free yoga, Pilates, HIIT, and other equipment-less videos that you can do in front of your TV. You can also invest in decently priced gym equipment from Amazon, such as weights, treadmills, and ellipticals. Lastly, a great workout is running in place – no equipment (not even a TV!) is needed for that.