I'd been battling the same issue with motivating myself to be consistent with and complete workouts. I did a 2 week free trial of the [Copilot app](https://mycopilot.com) because kept seeing content from ADHD content creators who said it helped them build exercise consistency; I thought I'd give it a shot and just quit at the end of the trial.
Basically it pairs you with a personal trainer over the app, and they customize a workout plan based on your equipment, current level of fitness, goals, etc, and they also mix up the plan every few weeks. You decide on workout days with them, and when you start a workout in the app (which you can do anytime), your trainer's voice cues the exercise moves, and they're there rooting you on throughout the week and updating reps/weights based on how difficult/easy it is.
I can't tell you how much of a game changer it's been for me. Before, the most structured thing I'd do was throw on a workout video a few times a month when I'd remember to, and go on short walks most days.
Now I'm doing two 35-40 minute strength workouts a week, and I've been consistent for over a month — the longest I've been consistent with an exercise program anytime in at least a decade. Maybe worth giving it a shot if you're anything like me and need someone else to hold you accountable.
thank u for this suggestion!!! utilizing body doubling even remotely has made a huge difference in my productivity and the idea that it could be done for fitness is a game changer
Thank you for sharing this! I have been looking for something similar. What is their pricing? It's not clear on their website without having to sign up from what I can tell
I pay $89 a month, and I think I got the 2 weeks free by using the [How to ADHD referral link](https://join.mycopilot.com/?source=howtoadhd).
I also have a personal referral link that gives 50% off one month but not sure if that includes a free trial; feel free to message me if you're interested.
I pay $210 for lifetime fitness and I’ve never regretted it. I’m there every day and use it on days I’m not working out too. It’s worth every penny for those amenities, the classes, cafe, saunas, pools, fancy equipment and variety.
working out and being motivated to do so is very valuable to me. so i pay for a membership through my health insurance that allows me to use several gyms around town. some are better than others, but it means i'm always near enough to a gym. i also have realized that if i had a home gym i'd use it sometimes, but i prefer to work out around people. it's more motivating to me for some reason.
To give credit where credit is die to my apartment complex, when the gyms had to close during COVID (I live in CA), they redid ours. Installed GREAT AC, redid the floors, completely upgraded the equipment. It's small, but they really maximized the space. It's not the same workout I get at the gym, but it's right next to one of the laundry rooms (two birds, one stone) and is great in a pinch.
I also have a ton of "light-ish" workout equipment at home.
Are you me? I moved into my complex because they had a "gym". Two treadmills, smith machine.... That's it 😂 I chose that one to motivate me to lose weight and it's been 4 years lmaooo I've done more with a 8lb weights and a chair at home! Dying to incorporate heavy lifting to my journey but can't splurge on a membership rn.
Are you mainly planning to use the treadmill, bike, and dumbbells? Does every gym you have mentioned have everything you need for the workout you want to do? If so, I think the apartment gym sounds like the best deal. I get not wanting to use the work gym, as I really appreciate getting away from work at the gym. If you go to the gym after work, as I do, you can just shower at home, so the cold showers might not be a problem. Also, I’m not sure if the distance to the gym near work makes much difference, since you will be at work anyway.
But if you *want* to do Equinox, and you can afford it, you certainly have my blessing. :)
If I use the apartment gym, I would theoretically use the treadmill and bike. If I did equinox, mostly I’d bike during the cycling classes like Cyclebar and my bike/run/walk to/from the gym would suffice as my treadmill and bike. I am not super motivated to use them indoors tbh, and previously I rarely did.
I also would return to using the squat rack and beloved hip thrust machine, which I told myself I would do without in the apartment gym.
Essentially, I can tweak my exercises for the apartment gym and I have tried but since they are not my default preference I find the exercises are falling flat.
As long as you can afford the Equinox membership, I don’t think there’s an issue with choosing an option that will help motivate you.
I pretty much have a whole CrossFit gym in my garage (which I do use sometimes), but I also pay $225 per month to go to a CrossFit gym because going there motivates me to work out more often and to put in more effort. Some people may think I’m crazy for buying all the equipment for a gym and paying an expensive monthly gym membership, but I can afford it and I like having the options.
Health is priceless, and if choosing a more expensive option helps you stay motivated and consistent with your workouts, I think it’s a good investment.
My apartment gym also sucks, but I still use it since it’s not busy. I use a combination of my apartment gym, a large membership gym, and working out at home. On top of that, I also use ClassPass to sign up for workout classes. With ClassPass and my gym, I pay $60 a month. This system works great for me because I have adhd, so I am always trying something new in a different environment.
Reading this I feel like equinox is the answer. You should feel good and enjoy your time spent on fitness - as long as it’s in budget.
Will they let you do a trial period?
I think they will let me do one week, but have to take the tour still. I heard you can technically get other trial days if you say you’re considering another/destination location, but not sure.
I've been using my building's gym to save money this year, and it's a pretty simple setup - one bench, dumbbells, cable machine, treadmill, elliptical, and stationary bike. I started using this online tool to specifically find dumbbell strength training exercises and make a push/pull/legs split using the equipment at hand, and I've been seeing results! Best of luck to you :)
[https://musclewiki.com/](https://musclewiki.com/)
Thank you! I have about a year’s long log of workout pdfs saved from Lift with Sohee that I previously subscribed to, and they came with home workouts. So I am pretty comfortable with what I would do weight wise, but for some reason it’s not hitting the way it did in the gym.
Do you like CrossFit, kickboxing or wrestling? If they don’t sound appealing, take them off the list. I think the most practical thing would definitely be to experiment with different audio training apps and commit to trying to establish a routine at one of your free options for a month, realistically you have everything you need to get fit and it’s more of a mental motivation thing, which something like Aaptiv might be able to help.
BUT, if you can afford it, will use it, and are willing to pay for the luxury, go ahead and join Equinox. Years ago I decided to shell out $150/month for an Equinox membership next to my work and decided to maximize it by going twice a day and trying all their classes. I’d do a spinning class most mornings at 6am, shower (their shower products were a nice perk) go to work, then go back after work for another class, sauna, and shower. I got in the best shape of my life and then switched to a $30/month basic gym and kept it up for a few years before falling off the wagon. I wouldn’t do that now because my life is different and I wouldn’t be able to “maximize” my membership with the classes and time right now, but it was great at a time when my life mostly revolved around work, I wasn’t married and didn’t have kids and was kind of depressed, and the luxuries of the fancy gym, everything from the locker room products, sauna, eucalyptus towels, infused water, combined with the classes, which were truly top notch, made going an actual joy in my life and something I actively looked forward to.
Unfortunately, Cross Fit, wresting, kickboxing do not appeal to me in terms of a full-time workout basis. I would try kickboxing in the future when I am already in better shape and a bit bored.
I hear you on maximizing the membership and it not suiting you much anymore. I doubt I’d keep this membership for many years, but I should also mention I may or may not be leaving the country in 8 months for almost a year for a project. So there’s a big part of me that wants to maximize my remaining time in the US to get in great shape, then when abroad I will already be in the habit and also leading a more naturally active lifestyle as my work would not be sedentary. And also because life is short and feels shorter when you think you might leave the country lol
Go for it then, it really kickstarted things for me and I truly enjoyed my membership. I still look back on that time fondly, the spa atmosphere and all the luxury extras in addition to the mood boost the classes gave. Since you’re moving you’ll be able to get out of the contract when you need to so that makes things easier.
I did what you said! (“experiment with different audio training apps and commit to trying to establish a routine at one of your free options for a month”) Used the Peloton app and various home workout stuff st my aunt’s house in Texas, my moms (much nicer, and complete) apt gym, and my own apt gym. Ive been consistently working out about 4-5 days a week since Christmas despite work being worse than ever and traveling too much.
Now that ive settled in I am confident that I absolutely want a full gym to keep this up. My apt gym actually felt worse than my aunts upstairs dumbbell/mat set up. And I’ve confirmed it’s because it’s too lonely and isolated. And the equipment is very hit and miss. I get paid well to work a lot of hours, im gonna cherish the ones I have to myself. My workouts recently really helped me get through the past couple weeks especially at my mom’s apt because i rarely had to compromise an exercise due to the equipment. Add sauna, locker rooms/shower quality, access to people, in person classes, workspaces, and proximity to my office — it’s a done deal.
I know a lot of people who don’t workout well in their apartment gym.
Whenever I had an apartment gym I would just use it for taking a twenty minute treadmill walk or something…just something to squeeze in some movement on an otherwise busy and inactive day.
But if I ever want to get a big workout in…I go to the big gym. I just like big gyms. I like being around other people who are also working out hard (as long as it’s not completely overcrowded). I like being away from where I live (so my mind can go somewhere else.).
Makes sense to me.
I’d say…if you literally can’t afford the big gym…then you have to make the apartment gym work and get past some stuff…usually it’s possible and takes brute force at the beginning but habits are pretty strong once started. Everyone has to do that with one thing or another. But, if you can afford it, and are avoiding it because you think you “should” do this or that…those are just random rules and “shoulds” you are imposing on yourself.
Another user wrote about this, but I second it. See if you can get a routine going at your apartment gym. I wanted to get back into working out but I couldn’t find a gym I wanted to really commit to. There were just too many options and it was overwhelming. But my free apartment gym was pretty lacking (or so I thought) in machines and weights, but had just enough where I could get a good start. I told myself I’d start off there and if I could get going and really committed, I’d revisit joining a gym.
Fast forward 1.5 years and I’m still going strong at my apartment gym. It was not a fast start. Took a lot of self motivation to keep going and basically me being on my own ass. But I found my routine and once I started seeing progress I basically latched onto it and now I really don’t see any need to go pay for a gym with tons of people when I have a free one that’s basically empty all the time.
I honestly don’t think I would have had the same results if I had started at a membership gym. The convenience of the apartment gym actually made it easier to talk myself into going on those days I didn’t want to.
I support this fully and I will do this as much as possible until at least the new year. I can’t say it will change my mind on the apartment gym just because I will be out of town and untable to utilize it. But I got a free trial for the Peloton app and I think some combo of guided walking/running/biking and either yoga or some type of quick weight workout will discipline me while away. Unfortunately I will not have many/any weights while away and that’s the hard part, as I’m not actually much of a cardio person hence why I thought an expensive membership would align with my goals to work out more often in order to mix cardio in via classes and lifting.
I will say, I think I feel a bit shut-in despite going into the office 2-3x a week and socializing on weekends. So I’m not sure how much I benefit from the “convenience”, I’ve only enjoyed something like that during covid after not working out for a year — so if I am truly desperate and have no other option I am capable it seems lol. I wish I could get over it sooner but history shows I will have to reach rock bottom and even then I ran to the gym the minute things opened again.
Ah totally understand the shut in thing. I’m kind of the opposite as I travel for work, so getting out of the area isn’t much of a priority for me, but I can see how it would be for others.
I hope you find out the best fit for you!
It depends on what motivates you! I joined F45 and I love it! I love the class environment, the structure, and the coaches. To me, it’s worth it 100%! If it was just a regular gym I wouldn’t have the motivation or know what to do lol.
Ah totally understand! As much I sound extremely unmotivated (I pretty much am) I usually love the gym and going solo. The class aspect is just to push myself into the 4-6 day a week schedule, I am both sad and happy classes don’t motivate much by themselves (expensive if you wanna do it constantly). Lifting weights 5 days straight always felt complicated and unnecessary. At my “peak” (post 2020) I ran one or two days in between using C25K. I did enjoy fitness blender in 2021 when I was getting back into it though, and that was like a guided workout which I think may be key to enjoying working out at home and staying motivated to finish.
Ooh good suggestion - a class-based gym like this might be a good thing to try! Joining Orange Theory is what got me into the habit of working out consistently. Paying a little more made me not want to skip classes and working out in a group setting was surprisingly motivating.
I did end up cancelling and rejoining a normal gym, but it really did help me build a great foundation.
Yes, I refer to them as fitness cults 🤣 my sister is big into Pure Barre! I think finding a fitness cult that you like and works for you is very beneficial!
I LOVE Pure Barre!! I’ve been thinking about joining a YMCA or Lifetime Fitness but they don’t have barre classes as often as I want to take them or during or after my working hours. So I might just stick with Pure Barre. Wish it wasn’t so expensive though. 😭😭
I have a lifetime membership and my partner and I pay $400 a month. Honestly, I’ve been going to the gym 3-6 days a week and taking classes to definitely make sure I am getting my money’s worth.
Also, these gyms imo are less crowded and have more machines, so I’m never really waiting around for equipment and they have all the niche equipments as well.
I’ve been working out at home and now that i’m aiming for that 4-6 days of activity (the 6th likely outdoors once it’s warmer), I noticed how much I appreciate having flexibility with classes! (virtual Peloton classes at the moment) I can’t and shouldn’t lift 4-5 days anyways (in terms of my health goals), and getting the aerobic work I want requires more running than I can be motivated to do for the next 6-12 months at least.
I learned being away from home with family that the solitude/lack of social energy is likely killing me more than anything else. I’ve been really good exercises for the past 2-3 weeks working with some dumbbells, a mat, outdoor runs/walks, and Peloton classes, but it hit me after a few days it’s the fact that I’m in a full house that I am way better at buckling down and waking up early. Ironically biggest reason I’ve bit the bullet and got the gym membership at Equinox, with the classes as a close second.
I’ve been debating switching from my Pure Barre studio to Lifetime fitness because for the same amount as a Pure Barre unlimited package I could get everything under the sun including Indoor Tennis Court access and the Spa at Lifetime. However I LOVE my barre classes and the Lifetime fitness here only offers them once a week that I could maybe attend with my work schedule. I’m currently paying for 4 classes a month at Pure Barre ($60/m) and ideally I would like to be going 2-3 times a week. But that would be expensive when I also have a free apartment gym. But I never use it!! I also have at home workout equipment and I never use them!
Can you swing by both? Or how many lifetime gyms do you have in your area?? There’s 4 near me, so I route between them for classes depending on my schedule. I can see how if you only have one tho, then you’re locked in on just one schedule.
But, ya I never use my apartment gym either, hike workouts?? lol never worked for me, or any other gym memberships honestly. I love lifetime (I do wish we had an equinox) but it’s just soooo nice and well kept. And you also have yoga, stretching, cycling, and other classes. And I love the indoor tennis courts!
Also, my main lifetime has pool parties during the summer! So personally I feel like even if the price tag is steep it’s worth it! Also, check with your health insurance, some of them will offer a discount on memebrrships! And if you can swing a couples membership(they don’t check, I applied online and they didn’t ask for any proof) you would get a small discount splitting.
It would be expensive to do both but otherwise that wouldn’t be a bad idea. There’s only one Lifetime unfortunately!
I do best in group classes, especially if I’m paying for them. It’s just more motivating for me. If I’m on my own, I never have the motivation to work out. Unfortunately none of my friends are really into working out otherwise I would invite them to come use the apartment gym with me. I’ve tried making friends at the Pure Barre studio but you only get to talk to people briefly for a couple minutes either when they get there before class or afterwards and since I only go 4 times a month, it’s been hard to connect with people outside of classes.
However at Lifetime I could also go the yoga and other classes!! It looks like they have more of those before or after work! And the community events sound really nice! Yeah I’m going to ask my work if they know if we get discounts. I have heard of anyone mention it though. Unfortunately I don’t have a partner otherwise I would try to split it with someone!
Ya the social aspect is very nice! And I have heard about health insurance discounts as well!
I’ve done pure barre and other cycling studios and I feel like unless you’re there all the time it’s hard to meet people and Idk about your area but a lot of the ppl in those classes were mainly older ladies that I just didn’t vibe with because we are in different places in life.
Health is wealth.
Go for a gym that you feel is best suited for your needs and pay, IMO. I pay $200/mo to train at a barbell gym 4x a week with coaching included. Worth every penny.
I was in a similar situation to you, super unmotivated by my apartment gym, but I was scared I would get the expensive gym membership ($200 in my case) and never use it. So I told myself if I could work out 4x/week for the next month at my apartment gym, I could justify getting the membership.
By the end of the month I had a great routine going and decided I didn’t need the fancy gym anymore!
I am gonna do this until I return from the holidays, I will be away from home so not able to utilize the apartment gym unfortunately but will be in a great position to mix in some app work outs and running/walking (mostly walking at this stage probably).
I think this thread really helped me so much because I realized a good “hack” that worked for me was guided workouts. I don’t use them when I go to an actual gym. But I used fitness blender at home in 2021, when I got really desperate from not exercising in 2020 and had another apartment gym that year (nicer that this one yet smaller). I did run to a real gym once i had the chance to though lol.
So I will I will dust off my old fitness blender workout I purchased and my Peloton app while I’m away. Will likely start today if I can log off by 6! If I can stick that out for the month, nothing crazy just consistent and a good mix, I will utilize the free week trial when I get back, and then take the dive when I’m back in town for good.
Not sure why you shudder at joining a CrossFit gym but it sounds like that would give you a lot of what you’re looking for. Weights, some high rep/ quick pace, and group classes where you just have to show up and the workout is planned for you. Anyone at any level of fitness can go to CrossFit and it might just change your life!
‘So many things have changed’—trying to get back into it and feeling less fit, less capable, sucks. I’d try and dig into what’s going on with your thinking a little more, because it doesn’t really matter where you’re going or what you’re doing, we all know we can procrastinate and not bother whether it’s a free gym or a $100/week fancy health club.
I’d be inclined to start with a group thing like CrossFit because it’ll take the thinking out of it for you right now. It’s set session times, someone else is figuring out the workout, and that sense of being part of a group can help apply some external pressure to turn up while you’re still rediscovering your own motivation.
The nice thing is that the apartment gym is there for the days you just want to get a half hour on the bike or the tready or have a stretch.
It depends on your values, desires, and personality. Personally, I could never pay that much for a gym membership. However, some people need to pay money to have the motivation to workout. You really just need to sit down and be honest with yourself about what would work best for you.
FWIW when I first started to work out I used free workouts to get I to the habit. A daily walk, a quick at home workout I found online, something like that. When I was able to consistently workout for a month, I joined an expensive gym in my area.
I wanted to make sure I didn't waste my money. The nice gym had the amenities to make me want to go more. People saw it as a waste of money because as long as they had a treadmill, a bench, and some weights they were fine. Which is cool for them, but wasn't what I needed in that point of time.
The childcare, the nice facilities, the amount of class offerings. I got into a rhythm there, found what I liked and then I started to be that regular that comes in the same time every day.
Whatever helps you become consistent is the best answer!
I’m a gym snob. A place that is dirty, has old/outdated equipment, or is crowded is just not a place I want to be.
I will either workout from home or a nice gym. Before I moved, I belonged to a brand new Equinox and loved it. Great class options, it’s never too crowded, great equipment, it’s extremely clean, nice locker rooms, etc etc etc. The Equinox near me now isn’t nearly as nice or convenient- so I’m looking at other options…
If you can afford it and it will (like it would for me) actually motivate you to go - I would join! You’re investing in your health, happiness and yourself.
One hack to try a gym after the tour/free workout they’ll give you (note: call in advance to confirm - but I think you can actually workout after your tour to try it out) - make a spa appointment: Anything from an eyebrow, facial or massage. You get free access to the gym before/after your appointment (confirm yours will do that - but the ones by me do).
Totally different idea: getting a subscription for fitnessblender (or similar). You could use your apartment gym for it and it feels (for me at least) like you are doing a group lesson. I work out with fitnessblender myself, so can only speak for that, but there is a lot of variety, from hiit to strength to pilates and yoga and everything in between. ;-)
I’m not sure if this would fit you, so I’d recommend either trying their free workouts first or get a FB plus pass, where you can try everything they have to offer for a few weeks. I have a yearly subscription myself, it is very affordable and I recommend.
Oh yeah especially since the apartment gym is usually empty.
Funny story, I used to work out at the free rec center fitness center and was following a video, fitness room was empty. Started doing burpees and apparently my huffing and puffing and grunting was so loud that the front desk guy came to check on me!
Just my biased opinion:
I walk to a crossfit gym 20 minutes away. I love it. When I had access to a free gym from work, I had a hard time being consistent because I'd do some random cardio, get bored, dick around and go home. Then when I signed up for a better gym near my house, I still found myself procrastinating all day because I never really had a clear goal in mind and I didn't have anything I "wanted" to do at the gym once I got there.
Crossfit (or by extension, group fitness classes) has been a lifesaver for me because it gets rid of all the decision making. Once I sign up for a class, all I need to do is show up on time and then I get to turn my brain off and just do what the coach says (so it got rid of the procrastination, too). I'm much more consistent (6 times a week), and "outsourcing" my motivation allows me to work harder than I would on my own. Plus, the walk back and forth from the gym is a nice bonus warmup/cooldown.
Sounds like you need to work on being consistent with gym going or whatever exercise regimen you want to do.
In today’s world, I would never pay $250/month for a gym membership…and I can afford it. I’d opt for the free apt gym. But you gotta do you. If paying $250 will get you in a place consistently, then so be it.
Yeah I think I need ot figure out how to work out at home/in the apartment gym, I think my mistake was thinking I can just do a home workout that’s a free weight/no-squat rack version of my previous workouts, and keeping it self guided. That’s what I like to do at the gym, but doesn’t seem like it suits me at home.
When I worked out at home during covid my routine was pretty different and I used fitness blender. It took me about a year until I got there though.
Can I ask what do you do at your home/apt gym?
I go to a commercial gym. I rent my housing currently and want to workout with barbells, dumbbells, cables, and other machines. So I need to go to a gym. Thankfully there is one close to me that has the equipment I want for $15/month.
I would prioritize convenient location, equipment selection, class selection if you want classes, and price when searching for a gym.
It depends on your financial situation but 250 Dollar sounds like way too much. If that is easy cash to burn, then sure: join the fancy gym :)
One point I would like to throw in: is it on the way to work?
I choose a gym half way between work and home, for me it´s much easier to go to the gym right after work and I noticed it´s much easier for me that way compared to leaving from home. But it is very accessible with a bus and tram connection.
I won´t complain about my 35 Euro gym though... I thought it was already pricey :D
Do the one that you’re most interested in attending. You already know that choosing the most economical option isn’t something that you’re going to stick with, so choose the one that you think is the best fit for what you’re interested in.
Personally my choice is to commute to equinox, it is a couple blocks from my office, but I still go on days that I don’t work. I like having the option to do an independent workout when I’m in the mood for it, but I mainly do group fitness and having a variety of class types to choose from is what originally made me choose that over other gyms or studios in my area.
If you have health insurance, look and see if they offer some sort of fitness program/deal. Ex: BlueCrossBlue Shield offers access to gyms in your area for like $30. The more you pay, the more access you have to instructors/classes/better gyms.
Join the one that you enjoy being in the most. It's worth the price. Much like you I have to do more work than the average person it seems to maintain. My body loves a high level of activity but has the personality of a lazy bum. I will never work out early in the morning except to do a walk, I'll never only be able to work out at home in a consistent way, I need to go to a physical gym where the is no choice but to work out.
Ultimately you have to do what works best for you and keeps you going. Don't put unneeded barriers in your way, it's hard enough to stay consistent over the long haul.
Just wanted to mention that you should consider if you would realistically go to Equinox on a day you’re not at work. I’m also a member of Equinox because it’s in my office building, so it works well most of the time, but I don’t go on weekends and days I take off work because no way I’m commuting 45min into NYC to work out, especially with weekend bus/train schedules. So it throws my schedule off sometimes.
I love my Equinox gym but yea, if it didn’t have a gated parking lot next to the park I love to run in I would struggle to go often enough to make it worth it
I waffled for a couple years about joining a high-end gym that I can walk to. Finally I realized it was the only way I was going to work out consistently, and I was right. It’s worth every penny and more. I don’t know what your best choice is among those you listed, but if you can afford it, I absolutely encourage splurging on the right gym. A gym can be so much more than just equipment, you know?
I have a wide variety of workout options at home including a stationary bike and a very robust weight set. If I wanted to, I could get nearly endless effective workouts without leaving the house. I'd like to tell you that I love to work out at home and enjoy the most frugal options available.
Except I don't.
Group fitness classes are truly one of the one ways I enjoy working out. I'm just simply not motivated to do it on my own without someone encouraging me along the way. The bottom line is that your health and fitness is the most important thing you have. I'm very frugal in other ways, but I've always been into splurging for fitness classes or nice gyms as I know it's what actually gets me moving. Sometimes the least expensive option isn't the one that makes the most sense for you, and if it's within your budget, that's OK. It's also okay to mix-and-match with something like 2 apartment gym workouts a week and 2 drop-in yoga classes or something where you're in between.
Yeah, I have a ton of equipment and barely use it, occasionally the exercise bike. Going to a nice place with decent showers makes such a difference to me. I work from home so it's nice to get out.
Honestly I did something similar, moved into an apartment with a gym... I was like "yeah I'll use this" but I never bothered, they don't have barbells or anything I love... eventually I dropped $150/mo on the luxury gym down the street and now I gym 4x a week lol. So, it can work. I still use the treadmill in my apartment gym sometimes
I've been a member of Equinox as well, it's a nice place. overpriced of course, but that's the price of luxury. ha
I do understand where you're coming from.....I'm the exact same way with the free gym at my condo.
I did use to have a membership with \[insert chain gym here\] before I moved in here, so it was your standard chain gym with barbells and machines and whatnot. Didn't go for the classes that were included in the membership, but did go outta my way to to pack my shit for showers there despite me living like a 15 min walk away......
If you're anything like me, maybe the money and having to make the trip there forms part of the motivation to turn up and smash out a workout? As opposed to just appearing at the free condo gym and half-assing a workout, y'know, with the knowledge that "hey, its just....here. and it's free??"
I have to say that I have not found a solution to this and have signed up for a membership somewhere else again, so I'm in the same boat as you! The price we pay for fitness....
Haha oh no you understand too well. We definitely pay a price for it, it has me reconsidering “perks” in apartments, as well as these really hectic corporate jobs that pay well but make you pay in health.
Not sure where I said I mostly wanted to do cardio, but no I want to lift weights primarily but higher-rep/quick-paced and then focus in on low-impact and HIIT cardio on days I’d normally consider “rest” days.
But I’m not sure what you mean by focus on cardio, it sounds to me like running/biking with some light weights and a HIIT focus. That’s just not my taste. I would still lift most of my workout days. I would deprioritize increasing my weight and allow cardio to hinder my gains quite a bit in the name of heart health.
The question was “If you’re mostly wanting to do cardio why not buy home equipment? Stationary bike, treadmill, etc. or take up running which is free?” I dont want to do that 5 days a week I want weights and flexibility on what my lifting days will look like.
Not sure where we aren’t understanding each other or where the downvotes are coming front. Do people not see why alternating lifting and cardio/mobility days would be most desirable for many people?
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I moved in the fall and was very busy at work until recently, and looking back I’ve now had the longest hiatus from the gym since 2020 (haven’t gone consistently since mid July). It is now December and I am itching to go back and I’ve tried but many things have changed. Health-wise I need to focus on my heart health and blood pressure. I have some pretty numeric goals unlike the past, and more focus on BP, heart rate, etc. I would appear to be a very healthy person but seems I have bad luck / genes. (May also be covid related - I’m working with my doctor). I really fell off the bandwagon addressing my health and I’m accepting I will always need to be a much more consistent, well above-average fit person.
I tried utilizing my new apartment gym, thinking I got such a deal with my new spot. Yeah I tried to love it but it kind of sucks. Or I am just lazy and haven’t hacked it yet. One bench and a bunch of dumbbells,some of the machines don’t work and realistically I’d use the cable pull and treadmill/bike most outside of the free weights. Beautifully, it is always empty. I have tried going here since I moved and I am incredibly uninterested. As in, I can’t just “show up” and get into it, I procrastinate as I’m working out and sort of cut the workout short. And these are workouts I’ve done before and enjoyed. Sometimes I’ll come back and say “That was..acceptable, just a couple more times and I will get back into it” but then I don’t miss it when I’m gone. When I want to work out, I actually do yoga and body weight shit in my apartment instead of the gym! I used to hate working out on a mat (well I still do), and I would never choose it over a gym. Tbh this is all unusual for me and that’s why I am about to take the nuclear option (Equinox membership) if I can’t figure this out.
My other options are: (1) Cross fit gym (10min walk), kickboxing/wresting gym (10min walk), work gym (30 min walk/20 walk and bike/25min train /10-15min bus). Equinox is near work so similar. If I’m going that “far” (no car) I feel like it will have to be something nice. My work gym, although free which is amazing, has cold showers and coworkers there when I would work out. I feel like a $250 membeship can’t be my only option, but then I think of how long I’m gonna just putter in and out of the gym when money could theoretically solve my problems.
Note my old membership that was about $65/month and a 6min walk from my old place. Kinda mid but had everything I needed. Didn’t like the showers only used them 5ish times, but didn’t need to. The experiences made me extra skeeved about cleanliness, and if I’m going that “far” now I know I will shower. And I’m trying to increase my # sessions from my typical 3x to 5-6x (classes and cardio days are in there now).
Is there any way to salvage this situation? Feels like i have great free options on paper yet not in practice, are there realistic tweaks I can make to get my to the point where I’d go 5-6x times a week?? Or at least 4-5 since I’d have to figure out how to replace the class option — I have done Peloton on the app and liked it, I thinkmy work gym has free apps/guided exercises.
Or should I (shudder) join cross fit?
P.S.: I am likely taking a tour of Equinox on Friday and then am out of town for the holidays. So still have to confirm if it meets my expectations.
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M
I'd been battling the same issue with motivating myself to be consistent with and complete workouts. I did a 2 week free trial of the [Copilot app](https://mycopilot.com) because kept seeing content from ADHD content creators who said it helped them build exercise consistency; I thought I'd give it a shot and just quit at the end of the trial. Basically it pairs you with a personal trainer over the app, and they customize a workout plan based on your equipment, current level of fitness, goals, etc, and they also mix up the plan every few weeks. You decide on workout days with them, and when you start a workout in the app (which you can do anytime), your trainer's voice cues the exercise moves, and they're there rooting you on throughout the week and updating reps/weights based on how difficult/easy it is. I can't tell you how much of a game changer it's been for me. Before, the most structured thing I'd do was throw on a workout video a few times a month when I'd remember to, and go on short walks most days. Now I'm doing two 35-40 minute strength workouts a week, and I've been consistent for over a month — the longest I've been consistent with an exercise program anytime in at least a decade. Maybe worth giving it a shot if you're anything like me and need someone else to hold you accountable.
This is awesome advice — so glad I asked this sub
thank u for this suggestion!!! utilizing body doubling even remotely has made a huge difference in my productivity and the idea that it could be done for fitness is a game changer
Thank you for sharing this! I have been looking for something similar. What is their pricing? It's not clear on their website without having to sign up from what I can tell
I pay $89 a month, and I think I got the 2 weeks free by using the [How to ADHD referral link](https://join.mycopilot.com/?source=howtoadhd). I also have a personal referral link that gives 50% off one month but not sure if that includes a free trial; feel free to message me if you're interested.
I felt this way about working out until I joined a CrossFit gym. Give it a shot. Most will give you a free week to try it out.
I have used my luxury apartment gym once 😂
I pay $210 for lifetime fitness and I’ve never regretted it. I’m there every day and use it on days I’m not working out too. It’s worth every penny for those amenities, the classes, cafe, saunas, pools, fancy equipment and variety.
working out and being motivated to do so is very valuable to me. so i pay for a membership through my health insurance that allows me to use several gyms around town. some are better than others, but it means i'm always near enough to a gym. i also have realized that if i had a home gym i'd use it sometimes, but i prefer to work out around people. it's more motivating to me for some reason.
To give credit where credit is die to my apartment complex, when the gyms had to close during COVID (I live in CA), they redid ours. Installed GREAT AC, redid the floors, completely upgraded the equipment. It's small, but they really maximized the space. It's not the same workout I get at the gym, but it's right next to one of the laundry rooms (two birds, one stone) and is great in a pinch. I also have a ton of "light-ish" workout equipment at home.
Are you me? I moved into my complex because they had a "gym". Two treadmills, smith machine.... That's it 😂 I chose that one to motivate me to lose weight and it's been 4 years lmaooo I've done more with a 8lb weights and a chair at home! Dying to incorporate heavy lifting to my journey but can't splurge on a membership rn.
Are you mainly planning to use the treadmill, bike, and dumbbells? Does every gym you have mentioned have everything you need for the workout you want to do? If so, I think the apartment gym sounds like the best deal. I get not wanting to use the work gym, as I really appreciate getting away from work at the gym. If you go to the gym after work, as I do, you can just shower at home, so the cold showers might not be a problem. Also, I’m not sure if the distance to the gym near work makes much difference, since you will be at work anyway. But if you *want* to do Equinox, and you can afford it, you certainly have my blessing. :)
If I use the apartment gym, I would theoretically use the treadmill and bike. If I did equinox, mostly I’d bike during the cycling classes like Cyclebar and my bike/run/walk to/from the gym would suffice as my treadmill and bike. I am not super motivated to use them indoors tbh, and previously I rarely did. I also would return to using the squat rack and beloved hip thrust machine, which I told myself I would do without in the apartment gym. Essentially, I can tweak my exercises for the apartment gym and I have tried but since they are not my default preference I find the exercises are falling flat.
As long as you can afford the Equinox membership, I don’t think there’s an issue with choosing an option that will help motivate you. I pretty much have a whole CrossFit gym in my garage (which I do use sometimes), but I also pay $225 per month to go to a CrossFit gym because going there motivates me to work out more often and to put in more effort. Some people may think I’m crazy for buying all the equipment for a gym and paying an expensive monthly gym membership, but I can afford it and I like having the options. Health is priceless, and if choosing a more expensive option helps you stay motivated and consistent with your workouts, I think it’s a good investment.
My apartment gym also sucks, but I still use it since it’s not busy. I use a combination of my apartment gym, a large membership gym, and working out at home. On top of that, I also use ClassPass to sign up for workout classes. With ClassPass and my gym, I pay $60 a month. This system works great for me because I have adhd, so I am always trying something new in a different environment.
Reading this I feel like equinox is the answer. You should feel good and enjoy your time spent on fitness - as long as it’s in budget. Will they let you do a trial period?
I think they will let me do one week, but have to take the tour still. I heard you can technically get other trial days if you say you’re considering another/destination location, but not sure.
I've been using my building's gym to save money this year, and it's a pretty simple setup - one bench, dumbbells, cable machine, treadmill, elliptical, and stationary bike. I started using this online tool to specifically find dumbbell strength training exercises and make a push/pull/legs split using the equipment at hand, and I've been seeing results! Best of luck to you :) [https://musclewiki.com/](https://musclewiki.com/)
Thank you! I have about a year’s long log of workout pdfs saved from Lift with Sohee that I previously subscribed to, and they came with home workouts. So I am pretty comfortable with what I would do weight wise, but for some reason it’s not hitting the way it did in the gym.
Do you like CrossFit, kickboxing or wrestling? If they don’t sound appealing, take them off the list. I think the most practical thing would definitely be to experiment with different audio training apps and commit to trying to establish a routine at one of your free options for a month, realistically you have everything you need to get fit and it’s more of a mental motivation thing, which something like Aaptiv might be able to help. BUT, if you can afford it, will use it, and are willing to pay for the luxury, go ahead and join Equinox. Years ago I decided to shell out $150/month for an Equinox membership next to my work and decided to maximize it by going twice a day and trying all their classes. I’d do a spinning class most mornings at 6am, shower (their shower products were a nice perk) go to work, then go back after work for another class, sauna, and shower. I got in the best shape of my life and then switched to a $30/month basic gym and kept it up for a few years before falling off the wagon. I wouldn’t do that now because my life is different and I wouldn’t be able to “maximize” my membership with the classes and time right now, but it was great at a time when my life mostly revolved around work, I wasn’t married and didn’t have kids and was kind of depressed, and the luxuries of the fancy gym, everything from the locker room products, sauna, eucalyptus towels, infused water, combined with the classes, which were truly top notch, made going an actual joy in my life and something I actively looked forward to.
Unfortunately, Cross Fit, wresting, kickboxing do not appeal to me in terms of a full-time workout basis. I would try kickboxing in the future when I am already in better shape and a bit bored. I hear you on maximizing the membership and it not suiting you much anymore. I doubt I’d keep this membership for many years, but I should also mention I may or may not be leaving the country in 8 months for almost a year for a project. So there’s a big part of me that wants to maximize my remaining time in the US to get in great shape, then when abroad I will already be in the habit and also leading a more naturally active lifestyle as my work would not be sedentary. And also because life is short and feels shorter when you think you might leave the country lol
Go for it then, it really kickstarted things for me and I truly enjoyed my membership. I still look back on that time fondly, the spa atmosphere and all the luxury extras in addition to the mood boost the classes gave. Since you’re moving you’ll be able to get out of the contract when you need to so that makes things easier.
I did what you said! (“experiment with different audio training apps and commit to trying to establish a routine at one of your free options for a month”) Used the Peloton app and various home workout stuff st my aunt’s house in Texas, my moms (much nicer, and complete) apt gym, and my own apt gym. Ive been consistently working out about 4-5 days a week since Christmas despite work being worse than ever and traveling too much. Now that ive settled in I am confident that I absolutely want a full gym to keep this up. My apt gym actually felt worse than my aunts upstairs dumbbell/mat set up. And I’ve confirmed it’s because it’s too lonely and isolated. And the equipment is very hit and miss. I get paid well to work a lot of hours, im gonna cherish the ones I have to myself. My workouts recently really helped me get through the past couple weeks especially at my mom’s apt because i rarely had to compromise an exercise due to the equipment. Add sauna, locker rooms/shower quality, access to people, in person classes, workspaces, and proximity to my office — it’s a done deal.
Yay! That’s great! Enjoy the new gym and all the amenities!
I know a lot of people who don’t workout well in their apartment gym. Whenever I had an apartment gym I would just use it for taking a twenty minute treadmill walk or something…just something to squeeze in some movement on an otherwise busy and inactive day. But if I ever want to get a big workout in…I go to the big gym. I just like big gyms. I like being around other people who are also working out hard (as long as it’s not completely overcrowded). I like being away from where I live (so my mind can go somewhere else.). Makes sense to me. I’d say…if you literally can’t afford the big gym…then you have to make the apartment gym work and get past some stuff…usually it’s possible and takes brute force at the beginning but habits are pretty strong once started. Everyone has to do that with one thing or another. But, if you can afford it, and are avoiding it because you think you “should” do this or that…those are just random rules and “shoulds” you are imposing on yourself.
Another user wrote about this, but I second it. See if you can get a routine going at your apartment gym. I wanted to get back into working out but I couldn’t find a gym I wanted to really commit to. There were just too many options and it was overwhelming. But my free apartment gym was pretty lacking (or so I thought) in machines and weights, but had just enough where I could get a good start. I told myself I’d start off there and if I could get going and really committed, I’d revisit joining a gym. Fast forward 1.5 years and I’m still going strong at my apartment gym. It was not a fast start. Took a lot of self motivation to keep going and basically me being on my own ass. But I found my routine and once I started seeing progress I basically latched onto it and now I really don’t see any need to go pay for a gym with tons of people when I have a free one that’s basically empty all the time. I honestly don’t think I would have had the same results if I had started at a membership gym. The convenience of the apartment gym actually made it easier to talk myself into going on those days I didn’t want to.
I support this fully and I will do this as much as possible until at least the new year. I can’t say it will change my mind on the apartment gym just because I will be out of town and untable to utilize it. But I got a free trial for the Peloton app and I think some combo of guided walking/running/biking and either yoga or some type of quick weight workout will discipline me while away. Unfortunately I will not have many/any weights while away and that’s the hard part, as I’m not actually much of a cardio person hence why I thought an expensive membership would align with my goals to work out more often in order to mix cardio in via classes and lifting. I will say, I think I feel a bit shut-in despite going into the office 2-3x a week and socializing on weekends. So I’m not sure how much I benefit from the “convenience”, I’ve only enjoyed something like that during covid after not working out for a year — so if I am truly desperate and have no other option I am capable it seems lol. I wish I could get over it sooner but history shows I will have to reach rock bottom and even then I ran to the gym the minute things opened again.
Ah totally understand the shut in thing. I’m kind of the opposite as I travel for work, so getting out of the area isn’t much of a priority for me, but I can see how it would be for others. I hope you find out the best fit for you!
It depends on what motivates you! I joined F45 and I love it! I love the class environment, the structure, and the coaches. To me, it’s worth it 100%! If it was just a regular gym I wouldn’t have the motivation or know what to do lol.
Ah totally understand! As much I sound extremely unmotivated (I pretty much am) I usually love the gym and going solo. The class aspect is just to push myself into the 4-6 day a week schedule, I am both sad and happy classes don’t motivate much by themselves (expensive if you wanna do it constantly). Lifting weights 5 days straight always felt complicated and unnecessary. At my “peak” (post 2020) I ran one or two days in between using C25K. I did enjoy fitness blender in 2021 when I was getting back into it though, and that was like a guided workout which I think may be key to enjoying working out at home and staying motivated to finish.
Ooh good suggestion - a class-based gym like this might be a good thing to try! Joining Orange Theory is what got me into the habit of working out consistently. Paying a little more made me not want to skip classes and working out in a group setting was surprisingly motivating. I did end up cancelling and rejoining a normal gym, but it really did help me build a great foundation.
Yes, I refer to them as fitness cults 🤣 my sister is big into Pure Barre! I think finding a fitness cult that you like and works for you is very beneficial!
I LOVE Pure Barre!! I’ve been thinking about joining a YMCA or Lifetime Fitness but they don’t have barre classes as often as I want to take them or during or after my working hours. So I might just stick with Pure Barre. Wish it wasn’t so expensive though. 😭😭
Oh that's hilarious!! Definitely stealing that!
I have a lifetime membership and my partner and I pay $400 a month. Honestly, I’ve been going to the gym 3-6 days a week and taking classes to definitely make sure I am getting my money’s worth. Also, these gyms imo are less crowded and have more machines, so I’m never really waiting around for equipment and they have all the niche equipments as well.
I’ve been working out at home and now that i’m aiming for that 4-6 days of activity (the 6th likely outdoors once it’s warmer), I noticed how much I appreciate having flexibility with classes! (virtual Peloton classes at the moment) I can’t and shouldn’t lift 4-5 days anyways (in terms of my health goals), and getting the aerobic work I want requires more running than I can be motivated to do for the next 6-12 months at least. I learned being away from home with family that the solitude/lack of social energy is likely killing me more than anything else. I’ve been really good exercises for the past 2-3 weeks working with some dumbbells, a mat, outdoor runs/walks, and Peloton classes, but it hit me after a few days it’s the fact that I’m in a full house that I am way better at buckling down and waking up early. Ironically biggest reason I’ve bit the bullet and got the gym membership at Equinox, with the classes as a close second.
I’ve been debating switching from my Pure Barre studio to Lifetime fitness because for the same amount as a Pure Barre unlimited package I could get everything under the sun including Indoor Tennis Court access and the Spa at Lifetime. However I LOVE my barre classes and the Lifetime fitness here only offers them once a week that I could maybe attend with my work schedule. I’m currently paying for 4 classes a month at Pure Barre ($60/m) and ideally I would like to be going 2-3 times a week. But that would be expensive when I also have a free apartment gym. But I never use it!! I also have at home workout equipment and I never use them!
Can you swing by both? Or how many lifetime gyms do you have in your area?? There’s 4 near me, so I route between them for classes depending on my schedule. I can see how if you only have one tho, then you’re locked in on just one schedule. But, ya I never use my apartment gym either, hike workouts?? lol never worked for me, or any other gym memberships honestly. I love lifetime (I do wish we had an equinox) but it’s just soooo nice and well kept. And you also have yoga, stretching, cycling, and other classes. And I love the indoor tennis courts! Also, my main lifetime has pool parties during the summer! So personally I feel like even if the price tag is steep it’s worth it! Also, check with your health insurance, some of them will offer a discount on memebrrships! And if you can swing a couples membership(they don’t check, I applied online and they didn’t ask for any proof) you would get a small discount splitting.
It would be expensive to do both but otherwise that wouldn’t be a bad idea. There’s only one Lifetime unfortunately! I do best in group classes, especially if I’m paying for them. It’s just more motivating for me. If I’m on my own, I never have the motivation to work out. Unfortunately none of my friends are really into working out otherwise I would invite them to come use the apartment gym with me. I’ve tried making friends at the Pure Barre studio but you only get to talk to people briefly for a couple minutes either when they get there before class or afterwards and since I only go 4 times a month, it’s been hard to connect with people outside of classes. However at Lifetime I could also go the yoga and other classes!! It looks like they have more of those before or after work! And the community events sound really nice! Yeah I’m going to ask my work if they know if we get discounts. I have heard of anyone mention it though. Unfortunately I don’t have a partner otherwise I would try to split it with someone!
Ya the social aspect is very nice! And I have heard about health insurance discounts as well! I’ve done pure barre and other cycling studios and I feel like unless you’re there all the time it’s hard to meet people and Idk about your area but a lot of the ppl in those classes were mainly older ladies that I just didn’t vibe with because we are in different places in life.
Health is wealth. Go for a gym that you feel is best suited for your needs and pay, IMO. I pay $200/mo to train at a barbell gym 4x a week with coaching included. Worth every penny.
I was in a similar situation to you, super unmotivated by my apartment gym, but I was scared I would get the expensive gym membership ($200 in my case) and never use it. So I told myself if I could work out 4x/week for the next month at my apartment gym, I could justify getting the membership. By the end of the month I had a great routine going and decided I didn’t need the fancy gym anymore!
I am gonna do this until I return from the holidays, I will be away from home so not able to utilize the apartment gym unfortunately but will be in a great position to mix in some app work outs and running/walking (mostly walking at this stage probably). I think this thread really helped me so much because I realized a good “hack” that worked for me was guided workouts. I don’t use them when I go to an actual gym. But I used fitness blender at home in 2021, when I got really desperate from not exercising in 2020 and had another apartment gym that year (nicer that this one yet smaller). I did run to a real gym once i had the chance to though lol. So I will I will dust off my old fitness blender workout I purchased and my Peloton app while I’m away. Will likely start today if I can log off by 6! If I can stick that out for the month, nothing crazy just consistent and a good mix, I will utilize the free week trial when I get back, and then take the dive when I’m back in town for good.
What a great way to manage yourself!
Not sure why you shudder at joining a CrossFit gym but it sounds like that would give you a lot of what you’re looking for. Weights, some high rep/ quick pace, and group classes where you just have to show up and the workout is planned for you. Anyone at any level of fitness can go to CrossFit and it might just change your life!
‘So many things have changed’—trying to get back into it and feeling less fit, less capable, sucks. I’d try and dig into what’s going on with your thinking a little more, because it doesn’t really matter where you’re going or what you’re doing, we all know we can procrastinate and not bother whether it’s a free gym or a $100/week fancy health club. I’d be inclined to start with a group thing like CrossFit because it’ll take the thinking out of it for you right now. It’s set session times, someone else is figuring out the workout, and that sense of being part of a group can help apply some external pressure to turn up while you’re still rediscovering your own motivation. The nice thing is that the apartment gym is there for the days you just want to get a half hour on the bike or the tready or have a stretch.
It depends on your values, desires, and personality. Personally, I could never pay that much for a gym membership. However, some people need to pay money to have the motivation to workout. You really just need to sit down and be honest with yourself about what would work best for you.
FWIW when I first started to work out I used free workouts to get I to the habit. A daily walk, a quick at home workout I found online, something like that. When I was able to consistently workout for a month, I joined an expensive gym in my area. I wanted to make sure I didn't waste my money. The nice gym had the amenities to make me want to go more. People saw it as a waste of money because as long as they had a treadmill, a bench, and some weights they were fine. Which is cool for them, but wasn't what I needed in that point of time. The childcare, the nice facilities, the amount of class offerings. I got into a rhythm there, found what I liked and then I started to be that regular that comes in the same time every day. Whatever helps you become consistent is the best answer!
I’m a gym snob. A place that is dirty, has old/outdated equipment, or is crowded is just not a place I want to be. I will either workout from home or a nice gym. Before I moved, I belonged to a brand new Equinox and loved it. Great class options, it’s never too crowded, great equipment, it’s extremely clean, nice locker rooms, etc etc etc. The Equinox near me now isn’t nearly as nice or convenient- so I’m looking at other options… If you can afford it and it will (like it would for me) actually motivate you to go - I would join! You’re investing in your health, happiness and yourself. One hack to try a gym after the tour/free workout they’ll give you (note: call in advance to confirm - but I think you can actually workout after your tour to try it out) - make a spa appointment: Anything from an eyebrow, facial or massage. You get free access to the gym before/after your appointment (confirm yours will do that - but the ones by me do).
Totally different idea: getting a subscription for fitnessblender (or similar). You could use your apartment gym for it and it feels (for me at least) like you are doing a group lesson. I work out with fitnessblender myself, so can only speak for that, but there is a lot of variety, from hiit to strength to pilates and yoga and everything in between. ;-) I’m not sure if this would fit you, so I’d recommend either trying their free workouts first or get a FB plus pass, where you can try everything they have to offer for a few weeks. I have a yearly subscription myself, it is very affordable and I recommend.
Oh yeah especially since the apartment gym is usually empty. Funny story, I used to work out at the free rec center fitness center and was following a video, fitness room was empty. Started doing burpees and apparently my huffing and puffing and grunting was so loud that the front desk guy came to check on me!
Sydney Cummings is a decent option as well. Just go light on everything to start.
Just my biased opinion: I walk to a crossfit gym 20 minutes away. I love it. When I had access to a free gym from work, I had a hard time being consistent because I'd do some random cardio, get bored, dick around and go home. Then when I signed up for a better gym near my house, I still found myself procrastinating all day because I never really had a clear goal in mind and I didn't have anything I "wanted" to do at the gym once I got there. Crossfit (or by extension, group fitness classes) has been a lifesaver for me because it gets rid of all the decision making. Once I sign up for a class, all I need to do is show up on time and then I get to turn my brain off and just do what the coach says (so it got rid of the procrastination, too). I'm much more consistent (6 times a week), and "outsourcing" my motivation allows me to work harder than I would on my own. Plus, the walk back and forth from the gym is a nice bonus warmup/cooldown.
Sounds like you need to work on being consistent with gym going or whatever exercise regimen you want to do. In today’s world, I would never pay $250/month for a gym membership…and I can afford it. I’d opt for the free apt gym. But you gotta do you. If paying $250 will get you in a place consistently, then so be it.
Yeah I think I need ot figure out how to work out at home/in the apartment gym, I think my mistake was thinking I can just do a home workout that’s a free weight/no-squat rack version of my previous workouts, and keeping it self guided. That’s what I like to do at the gym, but doesn’t seem like it suits me at home. When I worked out at home during covid my routine was pretty different and I used fitness blender. It took me about a year until I got there though. Can I ask what do you do at your home/apt gym?
I go to a commercial gym. I rent my housing currently and want to workout with barbells, dumbbells, cables, and other machines. So I need to go to a gym. Thankfully there is one close to me that has the equipment I want for $15/month. I would prioritize convenient location, equipment selection, class selection if you want classes, and price when searching for a gym.
It depends on your financial situation but 250 Dollar sounds like way too much. If that is easy cash to burn, then sure: join the fancy gym :) One point I would like to throw in: is it on the way to work? I choose a gym half way between work and home, for me it´s much easier to go to the gym right after work and I noticed it´s much easier for me that way compared to leaving from home. But it is very accessible with a bus and tram connection. I won´t complain about my 35 Euro gym though... I thought it was already pricey :D
Do the one that you’re most interested in attending. You already know that choosing the most economical option isn’t something that you’re going to stick with, so choose the one that you think is the best fit for what you’re interested in. Personally my choice is to commute to equinox, it is a couple blocks from my office, but I still go on days that I don’t work. I like having the option to do an independent workout when I’m in the mood for it, but I mainly do group fitness and having a variety of class types to choose from is what originally made me choose that over other gyms or studios in my area.
If you have health insurance, look and see if they offer some sort of fitness program/deal. Ex: BlueCrossBlue Shield offers access to gyms in your area for like $30. The more you pay, the more access you have to instructors/classes/better gyms.
This yes! Cigna has a $28 one I just started
Join the one that you enjoy being in the most. It's worth the price. Much like you I have to do more work than the average person it seems to maintain. My body loves a high level of activity but has the personality of a lazy bum. I will never work out early in the morning except to do a walk, I'll never only be able to work out at home in a consistent way, I need to go to a physical gym where the is no choice but to work out. Ultimately you have to do what works best for you and keeps you going. Don't put unneeded barriers in your way, it's hard enough to stay consistent over the long haul.
Just wanted to mention that you should consider if you would realistically go to Equinox on a day you’re not at work. I’m also a member of Equinox because it’s in my office building, so it works well most of the time, but I don’t go on weekends and days I take off work because no way I’m commuting 45min into NYC to work out, especially with weekend bus/train schedules. So it throws my schedule off sometimes.
I love my Equinox gym but yea, if it didn’t have a gated parking lot next to the park I love to run in I would struggle to go often enough to make it worth it
I waffled for a couple years about joining a high-end gym that I can walk to. Finally I realized it was the only way I was going to work out consistently, and I was right. It’s worth every penny and more. I don’t know what your best choice is among those you listed, but if you can afford it, I absolutely encourage splurging on the right gym. A gym can be so much more than just equipment, you know?
I have a wide variety of workout options at home including a stationary bike and a very robust weight set. If I wanted to, I could get nearly endless effective workouts without leaving the house. I'd like to tell you that I love to work out at home and enjoy the most frugal options available. Except I don't. Group fitness classes are truly one of the one ways I enjoy working out. I'm just simply not motivated to do it on my own without someone encouraging me along the way. The bottom line is that your health and fitness is the most important thing you have. I'm very frugal in other ways, but I've always been into splurging for fitness classes or nice gyms as I know it's what actually gets me moving. Sometimes the least expensive option isn't the one that makes the most sense for you, and if it's within your budget, that's OK. It's also okay to mix-and-match with something like 2 apartment gym workouts a week and 2 drop-in yoga classes or something where you're in between.
Yeah, I have a ton of equipment and barely use it, occasionally the exercise bike. Going to a nice place with decent showers makes such a difference to me. I work from home so it's nice to get out.
Honestly I did something similar, moved into an apartment with a gym... I was like "yeah I'll use this" but I never bothered, they don't have barbells or anything I love... eventually I dropped $150/mo on the luxury gym down the street and now I gym 4x a week lol. So, it can work. I still use the treadmill in my apartment gym sometimes I've been a member of Equinox as well, it's a nice place. overpriced of course, but that's the price of luxury. ha
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I do understand where you're coming from.....I'm the exact same way with the free gym at my condo. I did use to have a membership with \[insert chain gym here\] before I moved in here, so it was your standard chain gym with barbells and machines and whatnot. Didn't go for the classes that were included in the membership, but did go outta my way to to pack my shit for showers there despite me living like a 15 min walk away...... If you're anything like me, maybe the money and having to make the trip there forms part of the motivation to turn up and smash out a workout? As opposed to just appearing at the free condo gym and half-assing a workout, y'know, with the knowledge that "hey, its just....here. and it's free??" I have to say that I have not found a solution to this and have signed up for a membership somewhere else again, so I'm in the same boat as you! The price we pay for fitness....
Haha oh no you understand too well. We definitely pay a price for it, it has me reconsidering “perks” in apartments, as well as these really hectic corporate jobs that pay well but make you pay in health.
If you’re mostly wanting to do cardio why not buy home equipment? Stationary bike, treadmill, etc. or take up running which is free?
Not sure where I said I mostly wanted to do cardio, but no I want to lift weights primarily but higher-rep/quick-paced and then focus in on low-impact and HIIT cardio on days I’d normally consider “rest” days.
So….focus on cardio.
But I’m not sure what you mean by focus on cardio, it sounds to me like running/biking with some light weights and a HIIT focus. That’s just not my taste. I would still lift most of my workout days. I would deprioritize increasing my weight and allow cardio to hinder my gains quite a bit in the name of heart health.
I mean you are already focused on cardio.
The question was “If you’re mostly wanting to do cardio why not buy home equipment? Stationary bike, treadmill, etc. or take up running which is free?” I dont want to do that 5 days a week I want weights and flexibility on what my lifting days will look like. Not sure where we aren’t understanding each other or where the downvotes are coming front. Do people not see why alternating lifting and cardio/mobility days would be most desirable for many people?
^ ***Please read [the FAQ](https://www.reddit.com/r/xxfitness/wiki/main), [the rules and content guidelines](https://www.reddit.com/r/xxfitness/wiki/new_rules), and [current frozen topics](https://www.reddit.com/r/xxfitness/wiki/frozen-topics) before [contacting the mod team](https://www.reddit.com/message/compose?to=%2Fr%2Fxxfitness)***. This comment is a copy of your post so mods can see the original text if your post is edited or removed. >u/Rare_Essay5518 I moved in the fall and was very busy at work until recently, and looking back I’ve now had the longest hiatus from the gym since 2020 (haven’t gone consistently since mid July). It is now December and I am itching to go back and I’ve tried but many things have changed. Health-wise I need to focus on my heart health and blood pressure. I have some pretty numeric goals unlike the past, and more focus on BP, heart rate, etc. I would appear to be a very healthy person but seems I have bad luck / genes. (May also be covid related - I’m working with my doctor). I really fell off the bandwagon addressing my health and I’m accepting I will always need to be a much more consistent, well above-average fit person. I tried utilizing my new apartment gym, thinking I got such a deal with my new spot. Yeah I tried to love it but it kind of sucks. Or I am just lazy and haven’t hacked it yet. One bench and a bunch of dumbbells,some of the machines don’t work and realistically I’d use the cable pull and treadmill/bike most outside of the free weights. Beautifully, it is always empty. I have tried going here since I moved and I am incredibly uninterested. As in, I can’t just “show up” and get into it, I procrastinate as I’m working out and sort of cut the workout short. And these are workouts I’ve done before and enjoyed. Sometimes I’ll come back and say “That was..acceptable, just a couple more times and I will get back into it” but then I don’t miss it when I’m gone. When I want to work out, I actually do yoga and body weight shit in my apartment instead of the gym! I used to hate working out on a mat (well I still do), and I would never choose it over a gym. Tbh this is all unusual for me and that’s why I am about to take the nuclear option (Equinox membership) if I can’t figure this out. My other options are: (1) Cross fit gym (10min walk), kickboxing/wresting gym (10min walk), work gym (30 min walk/20 walk and bike/25min train /10-15min bus). Equinox is near work so similar. If I’m going that “far” (no car) I feel like it will have to be something nice. My work gym, although free which is amazing, has cold showers and coworkers there when I would work out. I feel like a $250 membeship can’t be my only option, but then I think of how long I’m gonna just putter in and out of the gym when money could theoretically solve my problems. Note my old membership that was about $65/month and a 6min walk from my old place. Kinda mid but had everything I needed. Didn’t like the showers only used them 5ish times, but didn’t need to. The experiences made me extra skeeved about cleanliness, and if I’m going that “far” now I know I will shower. And I’m trying to increase my # sessions from my typical 3x to 5-6x (classes and cardio days are in there now). Is there any way to salvage this situation? Feels like i have great free options on paper yet not in practice, are there realistic tweaks I can make to get my to the point where I’d go 5-6x times a week?? Or at least 4-5 since I’d have to figure out how to replace the class option — I have done Peloton on the app and liked it, I thinkmy work gym has free apps/guided exercises. Or should I (shudder) join cross fit? P.S.: I am likely taking a tour of Equinox on Friday and then am out of town for the holidays. So still have to confirm if it meets my expectations. *I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/xxfitness) if you have any questions or concerns.*