First thing first- The gym is not for everyone

It can be great for some and traumatizing for others.

So why does experience differ so wildly? Well, there are really 3 main factors that will determine if you’re making a good decision or not.

These factors are your personality type, your goal/ fitness level, and your budget/ lifestyle.

#1: Personality Type

This is first because it is the single biggest factor in determining if you will be satisfied or resentful.

How do you feel about personal space? Or sweat? Or someone’s sweat within your personal space?

This is a big deal. If you’re not a “people person” and are shy or introverted, then joining a big gym can be a tragic mistake.

This is because it only takes a few bad times to subconsciously negatively associate it with dread and soon swear off the gym entirely.

Especially during peak hours, it can be very difficult to find your favorite machines or space to train.

Also, there are bound to be plenty of wondering eyes. “People-watching” is one best/ most stressful parts of the gym.

The truth is that everyone stares at each other. Mostly out of insecurity but in some cases, judgement.

#2 Goals and Fitness level

The primary appeal of a gym is the equipment access.

Beginners are often not aware that not all machines are created equally. There are big differences that can account for weeks or months of varying results.

Each gym is a little different but they are mostly the same.

They will have free weights, machines, cardio equipment, aerobics rooms, and functional equipment (sled, kettlebells, etc).

Some gyms have more machines than free weights or vice versa. This makes it important to pick a gym that aligns with your goals the best.

For general health and wellness, you don’t need much. Machines are ideal for learning new movements or bodybuilding. They are not ideal for aiding weight loss or improving conditioning.

#3 Budget and Lifestyle

The average membership cost varies significantly based on the amenities, benefits, and commitment length.

In general, there are 3 levels of “fitness clubs”.

Small commercial: These are the common 24 hour gyms such as Anytime Fitness, Workout Anytime, Snap Fitness, etc. These are priced between 35-70$ per month on average. They often have limited amenities and long commitments. They have basic-intermediate level equipment. Are low to moderately crowded. You’re really paying for the convenience with these as you can go at anytime. Shocker.

Big commercial: These are the common big box gyms such as Planet Fitness, Fitness Connection, LA Fitness, Gold’s Gym, Crunch, etc. These are the cheapest (10-30$ monthly) and the most crowded. Some newer clubs have medium level amenities such as hot tubs or swimming pools. They offer large group training and a large mix of equipment. You’re paying for the atmosphere and equipment with these.

Private/ Speciality: These are the least common and are often specialized in a specific training type such as Crossfit, powerlifting, running, and martial arts. These are often the most expensive and usually operate in small groups. Prices range from 130-200$ per month and offer ranging class/ session options.

Making a decision

If you’ve decided that it may not be the best fit to join a gym then you are not alone. You’ve probably figured out that’s why I’m writing this. So many people are fed up with the stress of crowded gyms. The good news is that unless you’re trying to become a bodybuilder, you do not need to ever set foot in the gym.

Bodyweight alone is enough if you take the time to understand the exercises and how to progress them.

However, the most effective and most convenient fitness solution is a barbell with some resistance bands and straps. These cost less than $300 and will last you a lifetime. The only catch is knowing how to balance the barbell strength exercises with the right bodyweight conditioning techniques.

Luckily, these are painfully easy to learn and produce rapid results. I know because I’ve witnessed hundreds of “regular” men and women get in shape from home within just a few weeks by following the barbells and backpacks ebook program.

This program consists of 3 different goal/experience specific exercise albums:

BASE

BUILD

BURN