So, you've decided to start your fitness journey and stay in shape. Great decision! But here's the thing: it comes with a price tag. Home gyms have always been popular for gym addicts and fitness enthusiasts. Since COVID, the want for a home gym has sky-rocketed. Now, however, the debate of which environment is better to pursue your fitness goals is back up to discussion. Which will give you the best value for money, more convenience, better ability to schedule, a wider variety of equipment, a greater social life, or more privacy? These all contribute to your long-term goals, but which will tick the most boxes for you? We’ve got you covered. This blog will help you decide on 'Home Gyms Vs Gym Memberships: Which One Reigns Supreme?'

The Cost Comparison Of Home Gyms Vs Gym Memberships

Home Gym

Say bye to monthly membership costs. 

No Monthly Membership Costs

By setting up your own home or garage gym, you can completely bypass the burden of monthly membership fees. 

Instead of continually paying to essentially "rent" gym equipment, you have the opportunity to invest in your own gear that will be yours to keep for years to come. This results in long-term financial savings and gives you the freedom to personalise your gym to your specific needs and preferences. Whether you envision creating a serene yoga area or setting up a dedicated squat rack station. You have the flexibility to customise your space to align perfectly with your fitness goals.

Investment Cost

While there are numerous benefits to starting your own home gym, it's important to acknowledge one significant drawback: the initial investment costs. Building the perfect home gym can indeed be a substantial expense. However, depending on your current fitness journey, you can purchase items that are relevant to you at that time, for example starting with some dumbells and a bench before going on to purchase other gym equipment items and accessories. 

Browse our range of commercial gym equipment that would improve your home gym and improve your home workouts. 

So How much would it cost?

On average, a budget-friendly home gym can range from £2500 to £5000 (source). This encompasses all the essential equipment (i.e., a treadmill, exercise bike, rowing machine, weights & dumbells, flooring tiles, a squat rack and a weight bench) needed to embark on your fitness journey.

This initial investment may appear substantial. However, the value that your investing in for a home gym isnt as substantiaw as you think. With an average monthly membership of £40 (source), the numbers start to add up: 

• After one year, £40 x 12 = £480.
• After five years, £40 x 60 = £2400.

It may seem that paying for a gym membership is still less expensive. However, it's crucial to note that this equipment will be long-lasting, if you opt for reputable brands like us. Check our reviews if you're uncertain! This means that the money you spend will provide physical value, whereas a membership will give you no tangible asset.

Gym Membership

No lump sum payment

As stated above, a gym membership is roughly £40 per month. The main thing here is that not everyone has a lump sum lying around to invest immediately in a home gym. Therefore if you're one of those people, this option helps you manage your money per month. With that said, you don't have to purchase masses of equipment immediately. You can gradually invest in your home gym equipment. After a while, you will have a full set up and it won't feel as much of a financial burden. Especially when you are fulfilled with your available equipment and no longer have to purchase equipment or a membership 

Convenience and Accessibility

Home Gym

Easy Access

One of the wonderful aspects of owning a home gym is the elimination of the time commuting to a gym.

Now, whether it's early morning or right after you return from work, you have the freedom to fit in a workout whenever it suits you best. No more waiting in queues for equipment when you have one right at home, ready for your exclusive use. It's all about maximising convenience and efficiency while ensuring a seamless workout experience.

A Personalised Workout Experience 

Having a home gym offers another significant benefit: the ability to design a personalised workout environment. Every aspect is under your control, from selecting the ideal gym flooring to curating the perfect music playlist and setting the temperature to create the desired atmosphere. You have the power to shape the ambiance precisely as you envision it.

Furthermore, with a home gym, you can tailor the equipment and layout to perfectly suit your unique fitness requirements. This customisation empowers you to achieve optimal results in the comfort and convenience of your own home. 

Gym Membership

Facilities

One of the standout benefits lies in the incredible array of amenities and facilities they offer. From cutting-edge equipment and a wide range of fitness classes to the guidance of personal trainers and access to valuable resources, gyms create an ideal setting for achieving your fitness aspirations.

Some gym memberships, particularly the more upscale ones, come bundled with exciting extras like saunas, swimming pools, spas, and other luxurious perks. These additional features enhance the enjoyment and convenience of your workout sessions, taking them to a whole new level. 

Range of Equipment

One major advantage of investing in a gym membership is the opportunity to access a wide range of cutting-edge gym equipment. 

Gyms have the financial means to invest significant amounts of money in state-of-the-art gear, including everything from advanced half-power racks to intricate multi-movement machines.

Social and motivational factors

Home gym

You may think that a home gym is at a loss in this aspect. However, nothing is stopping you from inviting like-minded friends over to indulge in your new gym equipment. Training with a friend is often some people's main social life, but this doesn't have to be limited to just commercial gyms.

Furthermore, motivation itself is a rollercoaster and this is certainly the case with a home gym. By having a home gym your motivation won't be knocked by external factors. For example, no one wants to wait for equipment at the gym, so much so, that many people are put off training at peak hours. Annoyingly this is when it would likely be the best time for them to train. Also, there will be days when you won't want to brave the cold and head out to the gym, so having the facilities in your own environment will help massively. 

Gym membership 

Maintaining a consistent level of motivation on your fitness journey can sometimes be a real struggle. However, being in a gym environment can truly work wonders in providing that much-needed burst of energy and motivation to power through your workouts. By surrounding yourself with like-minded fitness enthusiasts at a gym, you'll find yourself propelled in the right direction, with their contagious energy and dedication rubbing off on you.

Additionally, the subtle pressure of not wanting to hog a machine or equipment for too long in a shared gym acts as a fantastic motivator to complete your workout without any unnecessary procrastination.

What’s The Verdict?

As you might have anticipated, the debate between home gyms and gym memberships offers numerous options to consider. 

While we may have a slight bias towards home gym equipment, we acknowledge that gyms are an excellent choice for individuals embarking on their fitness journey. They provide a diverse range of amenities, a wide array of equipment options, and eliminate the need to rearrange your home's layout.

However, despite the common perception that building a home gym is a hassle and a significant investment, here at Exersci, we assure you that our gym packages and affordable equipment options make the process of creating your dream home gym both feasible and enjoyable.

Additionally, why rush the process of building your ideal garage gym? 

At Exersci, our equipment can be acquired gradually, allowing you to savor every step of your fitness journey. From dumbbells to clips, each purchase adds to the excitement and satisfaction of creating a personalised space that suits your unique fitness goals. 

And if you have any questions don’t hesitate to contact us at contact@exersci.co.uk or call us on 0330 175 6260. We're always here to help you reach your fitness goals!

View our home gym equipment here!