At DIY Nation, we believe working out should be done when and where you feel most comfortable, and for some people, the gym isn’t the best place. Some folks love it, while others don’t—just like anything in life. If you’re thinking about quitting the gym but don’t know what else to do, here are some great alternatives to keep you in shape!
Our relationship with the gym can be a bit love-hate. It’s a fantastic place to get fit, relieve stress, hang out with friends, and relax. But sometimes, waiting for equipment, paying monthly fees, and dealing with inconsiderate users can be really frustrating. If these negatives start outweighing the positives, it might be time to rethink your workout routine.
A gym membership is a common way to get fit, but there are other options that can be cheaper, more convenient, and more fun. A home gym, for instance, is perfect for many people—no waiting for equipment, no rush to finish your workout, and the convenience of being at home. If you’re smart about buying equipment, it can be cheaper in the long run compared to a monthly gym membership. You can usually get an Olympic barbell, plates, dumbbells, a bench, and a power rack for about the cost of a year at a commercial gym. You could save even more by looking for second-hand equipment on sites like Craigslist or Gumtree.
Building a home gym requires space, which isn’t always feasible for everyone. If space is an issue, you can scale back to just a set of dumbbells, a pull-up bar, and some bodyweight exercises, depending on your fitness goals.
If you’re more focused on cardio rather than weight training, why not head outside to get fit? There are endless outdoor workouts you can do, from running and cycling to sports like football or rock climbing. Some people find it hard to stick to a gym routine but enjoy doing activities like a football game with friends or a hike with their dog. The best exercise for you is often the one you enjoy the most.
Many public areas now offer free outdoor workout equipment. While this equipment may not be as advanced as what you find in a gym, you can still get a decent workout. These setups usually use body weight for resistance, so your progress might be limited, but varying your sets and reps can keep it challenging and fun.
Joining a fitness class can also be a fun way to stay in shape, even though it might come with some cost. Most towns and cities offer a variety of classes, so you should be able to find something that suits your fitness goals. You don’t have to stick to intense Bootcamp-style classes either. Many people choose martial arts or MMA classes to learn a new skill while getting fit. Yoga and Pilates are great options for improving flexibility and can be surprisingly challenging.
Check out what’s available in your local area—there might be a new hobby or friends waiting for you.
When it comes to fitness, the options are virtually limitless. The gym might be the default choice for many, but there are so many other ways to get a great workout. Whether you want to save money, break out of a rut, or try something new, ditching the gym might just be the best thing for your health.
