I thought I'd post this question to you ladies: What has been more successful in your experience - going to a gym or doing your workouts at home??

I have a treadmill at home and a couple workout dvds. My fiance loves the treadmill, uses it 5 times a week, and doesn't like going to the gym so that's like his own gym membership. What I really like is class workouts because it teaches me things I otherwise wouldn't do and keeps things interesting and new.

As you can see, i have a bit of pressure to get myself toned up with a little less than 3 months to do it in. I'm trying to justify a gym membership but as you likely know, they are certainly not cheap.

So, how many of you have been just as successful working out at home and how many would say that the gym was the best thing they could possibly invest in?

I've done both, and both have advantages.

Gyms are good because you get a lot of equipment variety, so you can try new things. There are classes, multiple kinds of cardio equipment, and all kinds of weights and machines to help with strength training. All of those make gyms very valuable.

BUT - I don't currently have a gym membership, because for me, the MOST important part of my workout plan is being able to easily fit it into my day (I work from home, and do a workout on my lunch break every day). Going to a gym isn't feasible time-wise for me for most of my workouts...I use every minute of my break for exercise. I also like the convenience factor - roll out of bed, throw on gym clothes, and START. And I like the challenge of finding new ways to move my body without a ton of equipment (I do a lot of my cardio as free-style step aerobics on the back porch step...just put on my headphones and step-dance. Creative!). And it costs less.

I wonder if it's possible for a 3 month membership? Something with less committment? Then you can get the membership bust your *** and then if all else fails you won't need it after... of if it's something you really need for a lifelong committment, then go for it! Yes they are expensive but if it makes you work out and get in shape I think it's worth it.

For me it's a gym membership...just too many distractions at home and the house is sort of small so the treadmill, weights etc are in the dining room and the spin in the living room..spin bike needs to be moved to ride it and since there is little space the treadmill and weights hold stuff that need to be moved. I do however use them on the weekends when I have more time. It rough having all that "gym" equipment and small house.

I have a gym membership through my parents, but it is not something I really utilize. I actually prefer to workout at home to different videos. They work me out HARD! Plus I don't have to worry about what I am wearing and how I look. Every once and awhile I will go and use the elliptical or something. I've also been wanting to try a spinning class but I dont think I have the endurance for that yet. My dad loves them though.

I do my own thing at home...while I'd like to go to a gym sometimes it's just not really convenient for me like exercising at home. I have 3 kids & work from home so it's easier for me to do my runs on the treadmill before they wake up. I also have an elliptical, stationary bike, bowflex, free weights, dvd's, etc. So lots of variety so I don't get bored

Classes are fun and I am taking a weekly belly dancing class to get out of the house but it's offered at a dance studio and not a gym.

If you want to try a gym some of them do have a monthly membership where you don't have to commit to a contract.

I am most successful at the gym. I like the options even though I mostly use the cardio equipment. I do not have cardio equipment at home.

I've done both. Do what you feel you can be more committed to, and for what your goals are. Are you just trying to lose weight? Do you want to tone your muscles for a strapless wedding gown as well? You might benefit from a consult with a personal trainer on a weekly basis to get help with specific goals.

Georgia

I have a gym membership, and right now its the best thing I can invest in. I don't own any fancy equipment at home (including a treadmill) so I go to the gym to get that stuff. I also can attend free workout groups so thats a plus.

gym. I dont have room at home for a lot of equipment, and the gym is a nice excuse to get out of the house :P i also find once i start working out at the gym its hard to just give where as at home i can always hit pause and go to the fridge

Thanks to everyone!!! I'm the type that once I get something in my head, I make a decision almost immediately. And after reading your posts I decided to go for it! I went out and signed the next year of my life away at a gym close to my place. It actually was a lot more reasonable of a price than I expected (due to them bending over backwards for new members -- economy issues).

So, I'll be taking a beginning pic today and we'll see how it all turns out by June 27th! I'm excited!

thats awesome well done

I have a gym membership as well..however i've only used the treadmill once and I rarely use the machines.

They offer a wide variety of classes such as Zumba, aqua aerobics, Kickboxing, etc...(these are my fave!). I found that when I was working out at home I was easily bored and distracted.

Going to the gym almost offers me some sort of sanctuary..like "me" time...odd but true. It's my best investment!

I cancelled mine in Sept. 08. I kept saying I would go but ultimately, I just spent a lot of money for nothing.

I guess the main thing is actually using it if you decide to get one. I had one for the summer but only went a few times. It was pretty much a waste of money! Instead I have several workout videos and I I'm sure it doesn't work for everyone but I like to watch tv/movies while I workout so I bought an elliptical