10 Reasons to Work Out from Home

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Whether you work out from home or go to a gym or even find someplace in between, it all takes commitment to show up and motivation to keep going. I’ve tried everything. Big gyms, small gyms, sweaty box gyms, yoga studios, running tracks, outside, inside. All. of. it.

There are numerous benefits to working out at all of these places, with a host of amenities, options, and a vast array of machines. But, I like to keep it simple by having an easy-to-follow and consistent workout plan with simple equipment. Nothing complicated. That is why I prefer to work out from home.

There are multiple advantages to working out from home. Here are my top ten reasons.

Ten Reasons to Work Out from Home

1. Convenience

I used to go the gym for many years in my 20s and early 30s. I would drive 15-20 minutes there, go the locker room, put away and lock up my things. I’d get out my iPod or MP3 player (it’s been a while) and adjust my headphones (with the long cord) as I selected my playlist. In the time it took me to drive and get set up at the gym, I am nearly done with my workout at home. I can’t beat the 15-second commute to my workout space in my house.

2. Working Out Guidance & Accountability

Given the number of fitness and streaming programs and apps available today, from popular Peloton bicycle and treadmill workouts, to virtual social connection apps like Strava and Garmin Connect, to BODi fitness blocks, I compare working out at home to having an fitness instructor or trainer with you at all times. I know I would lose motivation very quickly if I didn’t have the guidance to follow and accountability to show up the next day. These workout plans are prepared by people who know a lot more than I do about creating a fitness routine. I’m certain they make me work a little harder too!

3. Cost

There is always a monthly or yearly fee associated with a gym, along with cancellation fees, extra fees, as well as additional costs to take certain classes. This can get pretty costly depending on where you choose to work out. It will certainly take time and money to build your home gym, but you can start small and grow at your pace or as your biceps can keep up. Keep in mind, that if you choose to use a home-based streaming workout, these can also come with additional membership costs depending on which platform you use.

4. Consistency

Creating a consistent plan for working out helps build motivation. That is why I love and prefer the workouts from BODi (formerly Beachbody On Demand ). I have been using these DVD and now real time streaming workouts from BODi since 2010 and have several favorite programs I love. You name it. I’ve probably done it, or attempted it. I didn’t last long with the dance workouts.

Depending on which program I select, it can be anywhere from three to eight weeks (some longer). Each comes with a calendar of workouts along with an easy-to-follow plan with built-in rest days. Setting smaller, manageable goals has helped me consistently show up and stay motivated for over a decade. It hasn’t gotten easier as I’ve grown older, but I’ve learned to appreciate how staying active makes me feel.

5. Flexible Schedule

My classes start when I press play. No waiting around for the instructor to show up. No cancellations. No closing early on holidays. No trying to beat traffic to make a class at a certain time. Sometimes I want to enjoy that extra cup of coffee before I start my morning workout. But, I’m never late. I’m always on time because I get to start when it’s convenient for my schedule. Yes, there are actual live workouts to participate in, which is a fun option, but I still prefer my own schedule.

6. No Waiting for Equipment

You’re probably not going to have the state of the art and fancy equipment that you would get at a gym, but you can get just as an effective (or more) workout using free weights. I actually prefer this as strength training is my workout of choice. Having just a few simple free weights will get you started to work out from home. And there are many workouts you can do with no equipment at all.

7. No Shirt. No Shoes. No Problem.

You can wear whatever you want when you work out from home. There’s no dress code. No fashion show. Sports bra showing off that tacky back tattoo you got in 1995? No problem. And unless you’re in a yoga studio or pool, going barefoot at the gym is unthinkable. But going shoeless is my preference at home. I discovered this by accident a few years ago and I could not believe how wonderful and light I felt. I feel a lot more stable without shoes. It might sound a little weird, but I encourage you to try it. You might love it! No judgment here. Be careful with those weights though.

8. Change Workout Routine Often

I’m not against the gym. I was a member for years and loved it. But I had a habit of doing the same thing over and over again. I never challenged myself the way I do at home. Selecting a new workout routine every couple of months not only keeps my workouts fun and challenging, but it also keeps my body from adapting to the same thing. With the wide number of workouts available, I change my workout routine often so that I never get bored.

9. My Sweat is Enough

Getting on a treadmill after someone forgot to wipe down the equipment is gross. Or grabbing the set of 15-lb dumbbells after another gym-goer just coughed into their hands can be a bit unnerving. Germs and another person’s sweat are not on my list of favorite things. My own sweat is plenty enough for me. I don’t have to worry about the extra germs flying around me at home.

10. Mental Health Workout

Since becoming an empty nester, our house is a lot quieter these days. And if I’m not careful, I’ll find myself slipping back into the empty nest syndrome. Having that space inside my home to work out is good for both my mental and physical health and it’s not something I ever take for granted. Taking 30 minutes to one hour before I start my day gives me the mental break and relief I need from slipping back into the empty nester funk.

Do you have another platform you use for working out at home? What do you like about it? Let me know what you think in the comments below. And be sure to subscribe below to never miss a post from Beautifully Between.