Source: HEALTHandFITNESS.com
Summary:
By: Joann Bally CSCS
You've finally been convinced that you need to work out. Now your question is: where?
Even if you like to exercise out-of-doors, you still need an indoor venue for weight training
and for cardio exercise during inclement weather. Let's examine the pros and cons of
choosing to join a gym versus doing your workout at home.
HOME, Advantages:
Convenience--you can work out when you want to, and there's no travel time
involved. Economy--with dumbbells and a bench, you can get into weight
training for about half a typical yearly gym membership. You can also spend
thousands of dollars on an elaborate home gym. If you get a stationary bike or
other cardio equipment (often available at garage sales), that's extra expense.
Efficiency--you are in control of the tempo of your workout. There's no
waiting in line or searching for equipment.
Comfort--some people are not comfortable in a gym situation. Crowds, loud
music, and other people's sweaty bodies may turn you off. At home you can
wear what you want, and play your own music, or none.
HOME, Disadvantages
Space--even something as compact as a bench and dumbbells may be more
than you want to fit into your apartment.
Variety--no home gym is going to have the variety of a well-equipped health
club.
Distractions--if you just can't unplug the phone and convince the kids to do
their own thing for a while, you're better off at a gym.
Guidance--if you're not a seasoned exerciser, you can get into some bad and
unproductive habits if left to your own devices. A good health club will have
trainers and other staff who can give you a hand.
GYM, Advantages
Escape from home distractions, more equipment, service, stimulating
atmosphere, working out with friends. And if you like aerobics or other
classes, few people have them at home.
GYM, Disadvantages
Crowds, noise, other gym distractions. Your routine will take longer. Travel
time, parking, gym hours may be inconvenient.
Whichever you decide, do some research. We will offer some tips on choosing
a gym and selecting exercise equipment in later articles.
The ideal solution may be to join a gym and also have some equipment at
home for those times when you can't get there. Put that together with some
outdoor exercise and you can stay challenged and motivated for years to
come.
HEALTHandFITNESS.com 
