While you may be used to an indoor gym, outdoor gyms are growing in popularity every day. If you’re used to working out in a specific type of environment, you might be confused. After all, weights are weights, right? Does this really matter?
Yes, according to research. Studies have shown that the environment you are surrounded in can affect everything from the frequency of your workouts, to how hard you workout. Finding a gym environment that appeals to you could change your whole fitness experience.
So, how do you find which type of gym is right for you? Read on, to learn more about the pros and cons of indoor and outdoor gyms.
Indoor Gyms
Indoor gyms as we understand them have existed in some form or another since the mid-1800s. It wasn’t until the 1960s though, that we began to see gyms marketed toward the general public.
Indoor gyms have proved the test of time, and are still the way most people choose to exercise. The wide variety of equipment means that there are tools for every fitness level.
Many indoor gyms also feature a variety of other amenities. Common offerings include steam rooms, hot tubs, and pools. Higher-end gyms may also feature kids clubs, which are designed for parents who are looking to create a steady fitness routine.
While all indoor gyms will offer standard fitness equipment like machines, dumbbells, and weight racks, not all of them provide classes. If you are looking to add a group class into your fitness routine, be sure to check with each individual gym.
Joining a gym does require a financial investment. Most gyms will require you to pay a sign-up fee, as well as a monthly, recurring rate. These membership fees can range anywhere from $10 to over $100 a month. Be sure to take a realistic look at your budget before signing up for a membership. If you decide to cancel your membership, and then reinstate it later, it’s likely that you will have to pay the sign-up fee again.
Indoor gyms can be used year-round, regardless of the weather. Larger chain gyms are also often open with limited hours on holidays. This makes indoor gyms the perfect option for the fitness lover who prioritizes accessibility.
Outdoor Gyms
When people talk about outdoor gyms they are generally referring to two different things.
For some, outdoor gyms refer to fitness courses that can typically be found in a public park. At first glance, these structures may look a lot like the playground you used as a child. Upon closer examination, though, you’ll see that they are set up for a full range of workout activities. Offerings may include pull-up bars, sit-up benches, plyo boxes, and rowing stations.
These public outdoor gyms shine when it comes to accessibility. They are free to the public and encourage people of all ages to workout.
Of course, because they are open to the public, they can be crowded, depending on what day you choose to go. Because they look so similar to playground equipment, it is also not uncommon to find children playing on it, which can be frustrating when you are trying to exercise.
These days, however, there is a new type of outdoor gym growing in popularity. Like a membership-only indoor gym, these gyms require you to pay a membership fee. Similarly, they offer lots of the equipment you are familiar with from traditional gyms.
The difference? You get to enjoy the fresh air.
Private outdoor gyms are structured in a variety of different ways. Some are fully out in the open, others offer a tent or other awning to keep members protected from the elements.
This type of outdoor gym is a great option for those who like a more traditional workout, but love the freedom of being outdoors. In a post-COVID world, outdoor gyms are also a great option for those who are high risk and have to avoid too much exposure to germs.
Outdoor gyms can be unreliable. Extreme weather can lead to closures. On a cold or rainy day, you may find yourself reluctant to go workout. If consistency is important to you, be sure to take that into consideration.
Which One is Right For You?
The verdict?
It depends.
Just like us, gyms are not one size fits all. It’s important to take your personal preferences into account, before making a decision.
New to fitness and not sure what you like? Most gyms will offer a free trial period so that you can get a sense of whether it is the right fit for you. Alternatively, friends and family who are members of a gym may be able to get you a guest pass, so you can try a wide variety.
In the end, the most important factor is that you are taking care of your body. So whether you prefer to workout inside or out, get your body moving regularly. Over time, you’ll see tons of positive changes in your physical and mental well-being.
