You want to get in shape so you can feel good about how you look in shorts or a bathing suit. Or maybe your motivation is health: You don't feel happy about getting winded going up and down a flight of stairs. Things that used to come easy are now difficult. Joining a gym or health club is the answer, right? Doesn't everyone who's serious about fitness belong to one of those?
What's Your Style?
Joining a gym is not necessarily the answer for everyone, according to women's fitness expert Judy Mahle Lutter. Lutter is co-founder and president of Melpomene Institute, a research and resource center that serves women and girls who are interested in physical activity at all levels of frequency and intensity. "There are no studies which prove that going to the gym increases fitness faster than walking out your front door," she says. Lutter points out that joining a gym may not be the right option for those who enjoy being outside. "Walking, running, biking and cross-country skiing all produce fitness," she says.
Certified personal trainer Jason Daniel Henderson sees things a bit differently. While he cautions that those joining a gym or health club because of pressure from family or friends may not succeed at staying motivated, he also urges that those who decide to join a fitness facility not try to go it alone. "Get a buddy/spouse/family member to join with you, and get someone to hold you accountable – for encouragement, or to stay on your case," he says. However, Henderson concedes that there are alternatives to a gym for fitness. He echoes Lutter's suggestions for fitness activities, but adds, "Let's not forget the importance of strength training. Resistance bands (also known as therabands) are a cheap and easy way to build strength and shape your muscles." Resistance bands are available at sporting goods stores.
For Amy Radeski, a move from a rural area where she felt safe running with her dog for company, to an urban area where she no longer felt safe running alone, prompted her to join a gym. She also enjoys running on a track. "Plus, in the past, I'd done a lot of aerobics and gotten into great shape," she says. "The running did wonders for my cardio[vascular system] and lower body, but not much for my upper body." Radeski also wanted a workout that wasn't weather-dependent. "I hate being out in the wind and rain," she says. "I just won't work out outside. So having someplace to go indoors takes away my excuses about not working out because of the weather!"
Grace Olson couldn't disagree more. She tried several gyms but didn't really click with any of them. She hated waiting for machines and fitting the gym into her busy schedule. "The other big thing for me is that I just don't like the gym culture!" says Olson. "I don't want to fit fitness into an hour five times a week. Instead, I have traded my gym membership for something I really do love – membership in a tennis club." Olson usually plays tennis four days a week. "I also run five days a week when the weather's nice," she says. "When it isn't nice, I work out with different aerobics tapes. I like this because I'm in control. I choose the tape; I choose when to exercise."
Christine Crow grew up being active, involved in dance and recreational sports. She no longer dances, and plays sports infrequently – but she is a faithful member of her gym. "I needed a workout that included cardio and weights," she says. "I enjoy going to the gym, and working out outside of my home. I tried the 'at home' method – I have free weights, Tae-Bo tapes, the whole deal, and I can't get myself to do it." Crow enjoys her cardio workout, with the motivation of a live instructor, the music, proper flooring and mirrors. She also likes being able to get in a variety of fitness activities in a relatively short period of time. "The gym we go to has a sauna and a Jacuzzi – these are special treats if I've had a really good workout and want to reward myself," she says.
Lutter advises women to think of their own personalities when considering whether to join a fitness facility or go it alone. "Ask yourself whether you are more comfortable exercising with others, if the whole gym scene is interesting, exciting or whether you really prefer to exercise alone or with a friend or two," she says.
Olson agrees that it's important to consider your own personal style. "The message I kept hearing was, if you're serious about fitness, join a gym," she says. "I wanted to be in good shape, so I joined a gym. It seemed like everyone was joining!" After dropping out of two gyms, Olson says, "I urge people to think about if a health club is really the right way to get and stay fit. How many people join a gym and then quit a short time later, thinking it's their fault, they weren't motivated, etc. Ironically, after giving up on gyms, I am in the best shape of my life, and at age 41!"
Are the perks, equipment and staffing at a health club what you need to achieve your fitness goals? Do you prefer to exercise on your own at home or outside? Is there a sport you love to play? Or is a combination of activities what you need? Only you know for sure. The message comes through loud and clear: Do what works for you. Keep your eyes on the fitness prize, and enjoy reaching your goals!
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