I can remember the first time I went to a gym. I can also tell you it was a loooong time between when I first wanted to go to the gym and when I actually joined. And really I only ended up joining because a friend also went to that gym – as an introvert I don’t do new things easily – but this particular gym also had child care, and as a new stay-at-home mom it was exactly what I needed at that time. Even though I found my passion for exercise/wellness inside that first gym, and made friends too, every day walking into that gym was like torture because social interaction makes me sweat anxiously, let alone doing something new while people were all around judging me, or at least it felt that way! Even if it says Judgement Free Zone on the wall, people are still looking, and forming opinions inside their heads. LOL am I the only one who feels this way I can’t be, right????

So after years of thinking I could only get a good workout in a gym, the pandemic happened. Enter: home workouts 🙌

I fell in love with being alone during my workouts! I could break out in dance whenever I felt like it, I didn’t have to pace awkwardly around the gym until the machine or area I wanted to be in was free from people, and I no longer had to worry if I was sweating through my pants (which happens anytime I do even just a little bit of cardio).

As a millennial woman, I love having flexibility in my day so being able to do my workout when I feel like PLUS not have to worry about getting dressed, driving, or being around people brings me joy AND saves me time for other things I want to be doing. The benefits of working out at home are numerous:

• Dance Party Freedom: Sometimes the music just hits different. At home, you can crank up the volume and let loose without fear of judgment or disturbing other gym-goers. Need to break out in dance because that Kendrick song just came on? Go for it! Your dogs enjoy the show.
• Germ-Free Zone: Gyms + bacteria go hand in hand. Sweaty equipment and people who don’t clean them after use, who knows who is washing their hands after the bathroom?? Plus people breathing heavily all around each other – the risk of getting sick is real. Working out at home allows you to maintain a clean and hygienic environment, minimizing your chances of catching any ick.
• Personalized Schedule: Say goodbye to rigid gym schedules or having to avoid busy times, the time it would be most convenient for you too. With home workouts, you’re the boss. Work out whenever it fits your schedule, whether it’s early morning, late at night, or during your lunch break.
• Cost-Effective: Gym memberships can be expensive. Home workouts eliminate the need for costly monthly fees, allowing you to invest your money in other areas of your life. I made the foolish mistake of continuing to pay for my gym membership all through the pandemic, thinking I would be returning, but time just kept slipping by, and I loved being at home!
• Comfort and Privacy: It feels way more comfortable working out in your own space, free from distractions and the pressure of performing for others. Maybe extroverts are into that kind of thing, but as an introvert it makes me want to barf a little thinking about it. I don’t even want my family watching me workout, let alone strangers!
• No More Excuses: No more excuses about traffic, parking, or finding childcare. With your gym at home, you can eliminate any barriers that might prevent you from reaching your fitness goals. A note on having little ones at home: Yes they will be all up in your space. They’ll want to try what you’re doing, they’ll want to climb all over you, but the more they see you doing it the less exciting it will become. It’s a great example to set, showing your kids exercise is a normal part of life will make them more likely to do it as they get older. My kiddo would join me for about 3 minutes, then get distracted by whatever else. Ultimately that’s what made me start working out in the morning, before anyone else is awake so I could get it done without interruptions. Mandatory Me Time.

Tips for Effective Home Workouts:

• Create a dedicated workout space: Even a small corner of your bedroom or living room can work!
• Invest in some essential equipment: A yoga mat, resistance bands, and a set of dumbbells can go a long way.
• Find online resources: Free workouts on YouTube or paid programs like Hot Body Habits (coming soon).
• Set realistic goals: Start small. SUPER small. A little goes a long way, don’t burn out quickly.
• Find a workout buddy (online or in-person): Having someone to keep you accountable can make a big difference.
• Make it fun! Put on your favorite playlist, light some candles, and enjoy the process. Your body and mind will thank you!

So, take it from me- you should ditch the gym and embrace the freedom and flexibility of home workouts! You might just discover that you prefer the comfort of your own living room to the crowded, sometimes intimidating atmosphere of a traditional gym.