Why you might not be seeing success at the gym (and what to do about it)

Statistics say that the average gym membership costs around $60 (although I’m certain that number is higher here in Toronto) and that 67% of people with gym memberships never use them. Many of our clients come to us after trying out a commercial gym and deciding it wasn’t for them. The most common reasons why include…

1. They found it intimidating – we’ve heard many times that they felt they didn’t measure up, or that the gym felt more like a fashion show or meat market than a place to get healthy and fit. Of course, not all gyms will feel this way, but some certainly do.

2. They found it crowded and unpredictable. Gyms can be busy – to the point where you may not be able to access a particular piece of equipment, or have enough space to feel comfortable doing your workout. Not a good feeling.

3. Parking/just getting there. For many, it’s the going that’s the roadblock. Especially in the city, parking can be tough which adds to the challenge.

Our biggest beef with commercial gyms are their reliance on machine-based exercises. These are not the most functional or effective. You’re much better off doing body weight exercises that do not isolate specific muscles, and get everything working together the way they naturally would/should.

If you’ve been a member of a gym for a long time and are seeing limited success and/or not going at all, it may be time to consider another path. To many, personal training feels too expensive. But the reality is, you won’t find a better bang for your fitness buck than an in-home workout with a trainer who knows their stuff. Our workouts are efficient and highly effective and – the best part – you don’t have to worry about getting there, what to wear, or competing for space with bulky gym rats. 

I’d challenge you to do the math and see what your membership is costing you annually. I’d be willing to bet it would be enough to do one of our packages – especially if you enlisted a friend or two to join you.

If you’re interested in learning more about in-home workouts and what Nielsen Fitness can do for you, you know where to find us!