WEEK THIRTY-ONE :: Which Is More Beneficial: Training At Home Or Training In The Gym?

[the_fake_webmaster]

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TOPIC: Which Is More Beneficial: Training At Home Or Training In The Gym?

For the week of: June 30th - July 6th.

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Many people enjoy the privacy of training in their own home gym. There is no wait to use a machine and they can play whatever music they want- and it's open 24/7. But some enjoy the social atmosphere and variety at a gym.

What is better, working out at the gym or at home?

What are some of the favorable and unfavorable reasons to workout at the gym?

What are some of the favorable and unfavorable reasons to workout at home?

Where do you get better results? At the local gym or at your house?

BONUS QUESTION: If you were to create your own home gym, what would it consist of and why?

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Don't discuss any other topic in this section. ONLY discuss the question above.

The best response will get $75 in credit to use in our online store! The other good responses will be used in an article on the main Bodybuilding.com site, with the poster's forum name listed by it. Become famous!

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Bodybuilding.com

[sword chucks]

WEEK THIRTY-ONE :: Which Is More Beneficial Training At Home, Or Training In The Gym?

Introduction

Training at a gym with the proper atmosphere has everything to do with determining someone's muscle gains. However, his doesn't mean the same thing for everyone. Everyone has a different atmosphere in which they like to train. That is why training at home and training at a gym both have their benefits- everyone has a different setting that produces optimal training results.

Different Atmospheres to Train in

As I mentioned above, training is all about the surroundings. Here are some examples of places of training and the atmosphere that comes with them:

Fitness Center

The weights are there. There are people there. It is usually a very social environment and very laid back. People go in to do whatever they feel like and get out, perhaps having a smoke outside during their workout or coming to show off with friends. This laid back environment is good for people who train better when calm as opposed to when pumped up. However, it is difficult to truly intensify your training when everyone around you is sharing their JUICY gossip and you're trying to concentrate on your set of 20 rep breathing squats. The hardcore bodybuilder is often frowned upon here but sometimes they can get motivation from seeing others gawk in awe when they re-rack their loaded barbell after a tough set of squats or bench presses.

Verdict- not usually an optimal environment for training. You can invest in a portable music device such as an mp3 player so you don't have to listen to the annoying gym members go on, though.

Hardcore Gym

What is hardcore? For some people hardcore means blood and puke stains on the floor of an old abandoned basement with weights rusted off and raw wood benches with no padding. The most modern piece of lifting equipment is the leg press, which sits in a corner with dust growing on it next to the 5 squat racks that are shaking from overuse. The water fountain provides a thirsty lifter with a steady stream of a brown-yellow water for in between set refreshment. The 10lb dumbbells are dustier than the 200lb dumbbells.

Verdict- These types of gyms often produce the bodybuilders that are strong and have amazing mental toughness and therefore are at the top of the food chain. However, they are also very rare and will even scare off some bodybuilders. These gyms are some of the best to train in and are more beneficial than a fitness center or casual gym for those who respond best to being psyched up to train themselves past their limits.

Medium-Hardcore-ness gyms

For others hardcore can just be defined as a gym having a contemporary selection of equipment where people come, lift, sometimes ask for a spot, and then get out. It is not crowded but there is an aura of unspoken competition around everyone which pushes them to set personal bests each and every time they enter the weight room.

Verdict- These types of gyms can also produce very successful bodybuilders because they are not too intimidating but produce hard workers. Again, not many gyms remain this way.

Home Gyms

The battle is between you and the weights. Your only motivation comes from within. This motivation is the strongest and most long-lasting motivation and does not rely on anyone or anything besides yourself. It is also the most rewarding. Most home gyms consist of an adequate supply of free weights and not much else, meaning that a bodybuilder can achieve the full raw strength and overall development that comes from heavy freeweight movements. The home-gym using bodybuilder can blast their choice music as loud as they need and let out all the grunting and cursing that they need for more drive to train.

Verdict- While they do produce proper motivation, some people can not produce this inner motivation instantly and need outside encouragement from a gym before they can truly motviate themselves. Home gyms also lack some equipment that might be necesary to allow for more variation and to solve this problem it can become quite expensive. Finally, public gyms provide other people to provide a spot on any exercise which can aid in a lifters intensity and confidence.

To Answer the Question...

From these different types of gyms and their descriptions, the reader should already know which type of gym they would prefer to train in. Training in one's preferred gym and preferred atmosphere is what is most beneficial. If someone simply is too discouraged to generate intensity in a super hardcore gym or a home gym, a fitness center or medium-hardcore-ness gym will be best.

Overall, training in the gym is more beneficial than training at home due to reasons outlined in all of the above paragraphs. There is a larger variety of equipment for the bodybuilder as well as a group of people who can help someone with a spot if necesary.

Another point that I should make is the price. Creating a home gym can cost hundreds of dollars to pay for weights, replacing weights, a squat rack, and other equipment. Most squat racks with a set of olympic weights and dumbbells will cost a person upwards of 500 dollars. A gym membership is much less expensive which means more money for food and supplements.

If your gym is not too crowded - most gyms are not really all that crowded all day - then train at home. But know that training in a gym has the necesary materials to build a bodybuilder moreso than a home gym.

BONUS: If you were to create your own home gym, what would it consist of and why?

For anyone's home gym there are a few definate things that a person needs.

Must-Haves

• Power Cage: a power cage serves many purposes. A bodybuilder can do their squats, bench presses, curls, shrugs, and many other exercises in it. I say get a power cage with a high and low cable pulley- they are not overly expensive. This is also a place to do pullups and dips.
  
  Bench: put in a few extra dollars and get the one with 10-15 settings. Your pressing muscles will thank you. The bench is a good place to rest dumbbells in between sets of using them and put other weights. It is, of course, also good for bench presses and military presses. If you get a free bench you can put it in between the racks of a power cage- this is a great set up and uses less space.
  
  Weight set: This should include adjustable dumbbells and an adjustable barbell with cast-iron weights. Olympic weights are preferred but standard weights are also weight of course and will work just fine.
  
  Training log: Many contemporary bodybuilders have realized the importance of muscular overload. This can not be achieved if one is not sure of the weight used in the last session! Therefore a bodybuilder needs to record their personal bests each week so they can beat it next week.
  
  Mirrors: I mean full mirrors from the floor to the ceiling. Most people might not be able to get full mirrors but a large mirror for in front of the squat rack can help you check your form such as foot placement, depth, and many other aspects of the squat. It is also beneficial on other exercises to make sure you are using proper form.
  
  Space: there needs to be room to put all of this equipment! Unless you can get a fold up power cage, you need at least a 10X10 space to put all of your weights in.

Can-do-withouts

• Various cable pulleys: these include the wide grip bar, the V-bar, the M-bar, and many others.
  
  Calf raise block: this is not really necesary if you can find another place to train calves. This is necesary, though, to get a full stretch in the calf muscles while doing standing or seated calf raises.
  
  EZ curl bar or hammer bar or trap bar: these allow you to recruit different muscles and add some variation to training.
  
  Power hooks: these can be bought at www.powerhooks.com and greatly help people using dumbbells.
  
  Lifting straps: these are a must-have for those with a tremendously weak grip on exercises liek shrugs and rows where it helps to focus fully on the back muscles rather than the hands.
  
  Knee wraps, lifting suits, lifting belt, and things of that nature: this is a must-have for some but most people do not need this equipment. Even if one does work out at a public gym they probably still need to buy these things.

[mivi320]

Which is More Beneficial: Training At Home or Training In The Gym?

Weightlifters and fitness fanatics enjoy working out. That's a fact. But is training in the privacy of one's own home or training in a gym more beneficial?

Training at Home

For those who have limited time in their daily schedule, home gyms can be very convenient. Not all of us have the time to drive to and from the gym, and by working out in the privacy of own's home, training is made much more accessible. Below, the pros and cons are listed regarding training at home:

The Pros

Freedom

Ah, the freedom one will get with training at home. Whether it be blasting the heavy metal music while cranking out reps on the bench press or screaming aloud during some heavy squats. Not to mention that there is no wait for equipment because there are no other gym members.

The Convenience Factor

It's plain and simple. Training at home is much more suitable for individuals with busy schedules. Think about it. Training is made more convenient. No driving to the gym. No waiting for equipment. No annoying gym members. Just the individual and the weights.

Dumbbells and Barbells Made Easy

The best movements for overall size, development, and strength gains are free weight exercises. Fancy machines are inferior when stacked up against free weights. With a home gym consisting of predominantly free weights, one can save loads of money than if they were to purchase big and bulky machines. Not to mention the great results that would occur from use of free weight movements. Below is a list of free weight exercises that can be easily done with barbells and dumbbells in the privacy of one's own home:

Chest
Barbell or Dumbbell Flat Bench Press
Incline Dumbbell or Barbell Incline Bench Press
Decline Dumbbell or Barbell Decline Bench Press
DB Flyes
Back
Barbell or Dumbbell Rows
Deadlifts
T-Bar Rows w/Barbell
Dumbbell Pullover
Barbell or Dumbbell Shrugs
Upright Rows
Shoulders
Dumbbell or Barbell Shoulder Press
Military Press
Front Raise
Dumbbell Side Lateral Raise
Dumbbell Rear Lateral Raise
Legs
Barbell Squats
Front Squats
Good Mornings
Stiff-leg Deadlift
Calf Raise
Arms
Barbell Curls
Reverse-Grip Curls
Dumbbell Curls
Wrist Curls
Dumbbell or Barbell Tricep Extensions
Close-Grip Bench Press


The Cons

Money and Lack of Equipment

It costs loads of money to purchase equipment for one's very own home gym. Home gyms usually lack the desired equipment that the individual would like to use. Money doesn't grow on trees, so the desired equipment cannot always be available. This is by far one of the biggest downfalls to training at home.

Motivation

It can be extremely difficult to build up some motivation to attack the weights when training alone at home. This lack of motivation is not the best for reaching one's goals.

The Gym Atmosphere

With a home gym, there are no other gym members. That can be a problem for folks who like to pick up tips from other experienced weightlifters who happen to frequent the gym. It can also be a problem for those folks who enjoy "shooting the breeze" with the locals.

No Spotters

When training at home, there are no other folks around to assist or spot the individual. This can be dangerous for folks who train at a home gym, who decide to go heavy and are leery about how many reps they can actually peform.

Training In The Gym

Training in the gym is great for those who don't mind driving to the gym's location, and sharing equipment with other members. Most gyms have a plethora of free weights, machines, cardio equipment, and power racks. Below are the pros and cons of training at the gym:

The Pros

A Bodybuilder's Heaven

Walk into a well-established gym or fitness center and be prepared to be blown away with the large quantity of weights and equipment. Not to mention the mirrors all around the gym that assist one in perfecting form. Don't forget about the showers and sauna that can be used after completing a brutal workout.

Spotters all around

When attempting to put up some heavy weight on the bench press, it's always nice to have someone spotting for assurance. It's mostly a mental thing, but whenever I happen to be bench pressing, I can almost always crank out that 7th or 8th rep when I know that there's someone standing behind the bench. Most gym members don't mind giving a spot either, so feel free to ask away.

Reasonable Membership Fees

Most gym memberships are affordable and well worth each and every dollar. Think about it. Squat racks, bench presses, machines, dumbbells, barbells, plates, and cable stations are available for use. It would cost an arm and a leg to purchase all of this equipment for a home gym. With a gym membership, all of this equipment is yours.

Daycare for the kids

Some gyms happen to have a daycare center where one can leave the kids while working out. This is great for those single fathers or mothers who workout frequently and have small children.

The Cons

Busy hours

Every gym has their busy hours. It seems as if everybody in the area decided to workout at the same time. Equipment becomes occupied, and as a result, one usually has to "work in" with another gym member or members. However, one can schedule workouts around these busy hours and avoid the overcrowded gym and scarce availability of equipment.

Inconvenience

For some folks, the drive to the gym can be a long one. At times, the gym can seem like an inconvenience for these individuals. Some folks have busy schedules that disable them from having set times for when they'll be able to workout. This can be a huge inconvenience, and a home gym may be more suitable for folks in this boat.

The Gym is for Working Out

Those one of a kind gym members who talk your ear off. Whether it be talking politics or sports, those garrulous folks just keep on talking. Every gym has them. Even though they mean well, these members can disrupt your work out by talking up a storm. The gym is for working out, not socializing.

Conclusion

Both training at home and training at the gym have their advantages and disadvantages. Which training atmosphere is more beneficial? The answer to that question all comes down to what the individual prefers. Hopefully, with the issues I've discussed in this article, the individual will find out what atmosphere is best for them. Again, it primarily depends on the individual's liking. It is the writer's opinion that training in the gym deserves the upper hand, basically because there is more equipment afforded to most people who frequent the gym.

If you were to create your own home gym, what would it consist of and why?

First off, I would make sure there is enough room in the designated area for the home gym. The garage, basement, or a spacious room is great for a home gym. I would include the following in the home gym:

Plates, Barbells, and Dumbbells

As mentioned above, free weights are the way to go for overall development and strength gains. There are a ton of exercises that can be done with barbells and dumbbells, as mentioned previously. Don't forget the weight plates that are needed to load onto the barbell.

Stereo

Nothing better than your favorite tunes playing to pump you up for a great workout!

Squat Rack

There's no other exercise like the squat. The squat works the whole body and core. With a squat rack present in the home gym, squats can be done. Be sure to also include mirrors in the gym, and in front of the squat rack to check form.

Bench

There are quite a few exercises that can be performed on a bench. Most chest exercises are done on benches. Make sure the bench has adjustable settings that enables you to use an incline, decline, flat, and 90 degrees setting. That way, a wide variety of exercises can be done on one bench, rather than purchasing various benches with different settings.

Air Conditioning

Keeping cool during your workout will prevent dehydration and excessive perspiration. That way you can perform at your very best!

Dumbbell Rack and Weight Plate Tree

You need a place to hold the dumbbells, and with a dummbell rack, this can be accomplished. A weight plate tree is also ideal to have to store the weight plates.

Posters and Pictures

Pictures of that dream body you've always wanted posted on the wall of your home gym can provide some extra motivation. Or even posters on the walls of your favorite pro bodybuilder can make you train harder and with more intensity!

Best of luck with your goals,
Mike

[dragontraining]

How do you put color into your entry?

[jgb99]

How do you put color into your entry?

http://forum.bodybuilding.com/misc.php?do=bbcode

[bobio257]

Whether you work out at home, or at the gym, there are disadvantages to

each workout atmosphere. After tallying up the scores, I've decided

that working out at home is better because there are less disadvantages

with it.

Disadvantages at the gym:
-Annoying people: When that little guy at the bench next to

you decides he's going to try to bench 8 times his bodyweight only to

end up with the bar lying on his chest, are you going to zone him out?

How about that guy that screams at the top of his lungs every time he

goes down for a squat? There are millions of annoying characters at

every gym that distract the crap out of us at the local gym.

- The wait: I wouldn't mind waiting 15 minutes to ride on a

roller coaster, but when the prize for my patience is a pair of measly

dumbells, I think I'll pass. Let's not forget those people who plan

their entire routine around a single piece of equipment. The clock's

ticking my friend, and a lot of us don't have time to wait.

-The tunes: "Nothing gets me pumped up for a big lift quite

like the latest from Celine Dion." Just try to say that with a

straight face.

-Racking someone else's plates: If you've never had to do this

in a gym, you're a statistic. I don't think I've ever gone to the gym,

without having to take weights off the bar that I didn't want. The

sign says to rack your plates when you're done, but not everyone that

goes to the gym can read, or something.

-Chit Chat: When you see a friend you haven't spoken to in a

while at the gym, the conversation is inevitable. Sure this may not

sound like a bad thing, but you have to remember why you are here. You

are there to work. The chat on how things are going with the wife and

kids never seems to stay in the locker room, and takes away from the

intesity of your workout.

-The hours: Unfortunately the gym can't cater to everyone's

schedule. I know that's happened to me on sever occaisions.

-$$$$$: When you sit down and think about it, you're paying so

many dollars per month to go and use someone else's equipment. In

time, those gym fees add up. Depending on what all your using, it

might be more cost efficient to just buy a bench and some weights.






Disadvantages at home:

-inferior supplies: It's really hard to walk into a sporting

goods store, and walk out with everything you might find at the local

gym. A lot of companies try to make these "all-in-one" stations, but

lets get serious now. I had a preacher curl pad that attached to my

bench at home, and the cheap thing snapped in two after a few months.

The infamous leg extensions/curls piece for it broke after my first

week of doing leg extensions. If you're serious about getting bigger

and stronger, a lot of the equipment you find at the local sporting

goods stores might not cut it.

-a clash with the wallpaper: Nothing sucks the ambiance out of

a room quite as quickly as a beat-up bench with some plates scattered

about the floor. The bottom line is, unless your living alone,

someone's gonna be pissed to see it in a room they use.

-space: Exercise equipment takes up space, and if you want

stuff that will actually give you results, it probably won't fit under

your couch. To some people's misfortune, there is no place to stick a

bench or a squat rack.



Bonus: The bare necessities for an at-home gym are as follows: a

bench, a barbell, plates, and a pullup bar. With these two pieces of

equipment, a person can basic exercises to work each of the major

muscle groups.

legs: deadlifts and hack squats
chest: bench press
biceps: bicep curls
triceps: close-grip bench press
shoulders: upright rows
abs: sit-ups or crunches with weights
back: pullups (you can tie weights to your waist with some old

rope)

[dragontraining]

HOME WORKOUTS V.S GYMWORKOUTS

Many people enjoy the privacy of training in their own home gym. There is no wait to use a machine and they can play whatever music they want- and it's open 24/7. But some enjoy social atmosphere and variety at a gym.

What is better, working out at the gym, or at home?



What are some of the favorable and unfavorable reasons to workout at the gym?



What are some of the favorable and unfavorable reasons to workout at home?



Where you make better results? At the local gym or at your house.



BONUS QUESTION: If you were to create your own home gym, what would it consist of and why?

What is better, working out at the gym, or at home?

I am going to change this questions around to, Which place will make you SUCCED in your own individual goals? The answer is, its your own self that drives you to accomplish certain goals. I am not going to preach here telling you which place is best for you, because everyone is different! Every post here is wrong that tells you which place is “Correct” for your workouts, Some people do great in their own homes, some people do great in the gym… but what we want here is what’s best for you! So, in the next few questions I will explain to you which workout area would give you the greatest workouts for your body and mind!


What are some of the favorable and unfavorable reasons to workout at the gym?

Ah, the traditional gym workout is really worth it, or should I save on gas?

GYM PRO’S

* The number one rule in body building is safety, you can bring a friend to the gym or if your friend cannot commit coming to the gym with you, you can always meet nice people who know what they’re talking about in the fine world of body building and have years experience.



* What’s also great about the gym is that you can socialize with people that you know have the same interest in you… Bodybuilding of course! You can learn new workouts and meet some nice friend’s at the gym that can be that push to reach you up to your goals.



* Another advantage in the gym is that they have much more equipment that you can use then in your home. In your home you only would have certain equipment, at the gym you can have 100’s of pieces of traditional or modern machines and best of all, people working there, can actually show you how to use it correctly and most affectively.

GYM CONS

* I must admit, there are not many but few important cons about the gym. One of them is privacy. We all know that we like to have our shirts off or scream when your pushing that max in benching, listing to our favorite tune while pumping iron… yea all that good stuff. But at the gym, you really don’t want to scream in people’s ears because number one to some not all but its embarrassing and number two you just don’t feel comfortable. It’s also hard not being able to listen to your favorite music, yes it’s very selfish but hey, it’s your body changing workout! So you need all the hype you need.



* Another Inconvenience of the gym is that it has business hours and also, you might live 5 minutes away from a gym or 5 hours away! This seems to be the biggie in Cons for gyms. Not many people live right across the street you know, so it cant be tuff getting there… and trying to get there when there not closed!



* The most horrible thing that can affect you in the gym is the $$$, you have to make monthly or annual checks to the gym and it can really burn holes in your wallet, instead of burning calories in your body!


What are some of the favorable and unfavorable reasons to workout at home?

“Honey, I’m going out into the garage for a workout, can you pick up the kids?”
So, is working out in your own home worthwhile, or should I sign up now?

HOME PRO’S


* At home, you can have your own equipment, your own sweat on the seat, and the privacy you need for a good workout You can also listen to your own music and have the supplements from bodybuilding.com waiting right on the rack for you so it’s not a burden taking it to the gym.



* At home, you can design the way your workout room will look like. You can add pictures of your favorite athletes or motivation quotes, you know the whole nine yards. Plus, you get to pick the equipment that thinks best suits you and your body (or, in some cases the equipment you only afford… haha, yes that’s right having a perfect body is expensive.)



* At home, you can actually invite the people you’d like to be helped with. At a gym, you might get stuck with a jerk. You and your buddy can work together as a team to achieve your goals and not have to pay for it! That brings up the next Pro!



* One major pro to a lot of people, depending on your paycheck is that at your home it’s FREE!! Yes F-R-E-E, FREE. OK, party’s over that’s only for memberships, you still have to pay for your equipment!


HOME CON’S



* Yes, we all have our con’s. The main con of your home is that you don’t have professional’s by your side. You don’t have the help and safety that you would have in a gym… and the socializing!



* Another con of the home is there is no spotters, or motivation! There’s no one there to motivate you or spot your when you do your lifting (Besides Friends, Family). This can be a critical problem if your just starting out in the body building world.



* Another con of the Home is that you might not have heating or cooling in your garage if you happen to have the gym in your garage! You can hurt yourself if it’s to cold, or if it’s blistering hot!

Which area get’s the credit in my muscle?

I give all my credit to my local gym. I love being able to have someone by my side helping me with the work I’m doing. It’s better do something right and pay for it, that do it totally wrong and really PAY FOR IT! The gym is the most safest, professional, and social place to be and hey, your friend can come to, if he’s willing to pay.



What is better, working out at the gym, or at home?

If I were to make my own gym it would consist of:

*Bench Press- Not only the most original piece of equipment, but one of the most effective piece of equipment. Can also be used for Deadlifts,Cleans.


*Leg Press- One of the most underrated machines. Can be VERY useful in ALL sports and can work all part’s of your leg.


*Dumbbells- Excellent because you can almost use it for any part of your body! Try to get lot’s of weight’s so you can do high reps of lightweight or low reps of heavy weight.


*Jump Rope- This will take care of your cardio in the winter! The jump rope should be used much much more, it burns an incredible amount of calories and is very effective.


*Special Motivator- It can be a radio, a picture of your family,old self, girlfriend, posters… WHATEVER! Anything that drives you have it with your for the extra push!

Why don’t I include anymore?

All these machines will take care of every part of your body, It’s not quantity its quality

OVERALL

It’s your choice. I gave you the Pro’s and Con’s and the perfect gym, now you go out there and pick which place is best for you!


Here Are Some Links Of Workout's for the following equipment I showed you to use if you decide to choose your home!


Barbell

http://www.bodybuilding.com/fun/exer...on=&order=Name

Dumbell

http://www.bodybuilding.com/fun/exer...on=&order=Name

Leg Press... 2nd One

http://www.bodybuilding.com/fun/exer...ine&order=Name

Here is a link to find the nearest workout gym's near you!


http://www.google.com/lochp?hl=en&tab=wl&q=


Just Type in what your looking for, and your location... BINGO! You've got yourself the closet list of gym's in your area!



GOODLUCK SOLDIER!



If you do choose to workout in your home I highly reccomend this book for mor excerises and to guide you through the workouts of your life! I have used
this book myself and have gotten excellent results! Use it in the gym also!



http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg...books&n=507846



Any help needed, E-mail me @ Protossmatt@yahoo.com

[dajoka004]

Which Is More Beneficial Training At Home, Or Training In The Gym?

What is better, working out at the gym, or at home?

As someone who has used both a home gym and local gym for a substantial amount of time, I feel qualified to answer this question. While I prefer to workout at my local gym (because it is one of the best in the state, if not on the east coast), I recognize that this choice isn't going to be the same for everyone. Your preferences, goals, income, and quality of your local gyms all come into play when deciding which place to workout suits you better.

What are some of the favorable and unfavorable reasons to workout at the gym?

Favorable
-Complete set of equipment: I am lucky enough to have a great gym within five minutes of my house. A good gym will have everything you ever could need: machines, free weights, free benches and seats, various cardio equipment, mats, medicine balls, etc. Not only does this allow you to do a wide range of exercises, but it gives you the ability to alter your workouts, something that is very important to avoid plateaus.
-Classes: Gyms like Gold's and Bally's carry a wide range of group exercise classes. These can include: cycle, spinning, yoga, Pilates, Abs classes, Body Flow (Gold's), Body Pump (Gold's), and Body Combat (Gold's). These classes are great for beginners who are shy about working out alone. They also provide advanced bodybuilders with exercises they typically would not perform.
-Motivation: This is one benefit of being a gym member that I never hear. When I am at the gym and I see somebody putting up 400 pounds on the bench or 500 pounds on a squat, I feel motivated to do the same. Just make sure you aren't pushing yourself over your limits to look better infront of the rest of the gym.
-Trainers and spotters: One of the best thing about a local gym is that almost everyone is willing to help you when you need it. If you are just beginning to workout (even if you think you know everything), it is a good idea to find someone who will help you through your first few workouts. A trainer is a good idea for this, though not necessary. With so many people now going to gyms, there is always someone to give you a spot. This allows you to get that extra rep you wouldn't be able to at home.

Unfavorable
-Cost: As the quality of gyms improve, the cost has been steadily rising. You can find memberships for as low as $25, but a good gym membership will run you between $40 and $50 a month. If you are an avid gym goer, this should not be a problem considering how often you are using the gym. Price only becomes a problem when you are going one or two times a month. Who wants to be paying $50 to go to a gym twice a month?
-Terrible Music: One of my biggest beefs with my gym is the putrid music that is played. This can be eliminated though by purchasing an MP3 player or IPod. I guess I am just too cheap to do so though.
-Peak Hours: If your gym is popular, early mornings and nights during the weekdays and mornings on Saturday are likely when the gym is most crowded. If your schedule permits, I recommend going in the afternoon during the weekdays and Saturday, and any time during Sunday. If you can't do this , you can still go when the gym is busiest. Even though the machines/equipment you want is likely being used, most people are kind enough to let you jump in as long as it isn't an exercise where you are adding plates.

What are some of the favorable and unfavorable reasons to workout at home?

Favorable
-Training Convenience: This is by far the biggest plus of training at home. For many people just getting to the gym is a struggle. When your gym is in your basement, you should have no problem getting yourself there. Having the ability to train when you feel like it is a major plus. While most major gyms have long hours that are compatible with your schedule, there are some gyms that don't. Not having to worry about when your gym is open takes a big weight off your shoulder.
-Designing Your Gym: You might be a person that only needs very few pieces of equipment to get your workout in. Being able to put what you need in, and nothing else is a bonus. Also you can train how you like to: loud music, no shirt, lots of yelling, etc.

Unfavorable
-Cost: Building a home gym is very expensive, especially if you attempt to purchase everything at one time. Purchasing a complete set of dumbells will hit your wallet the hardest. The Bowflex SelectTech is a good piece of equipment to look into. The dumbells adjust from 5 to 52.5 pounds with a twist. It retails for $400 on the site, but can be found cheaper. If you need heavier weights, I still suggest purchasing the SelectTech and then buying the extra dumbells you need. This also saves you space.
-Space: Having a home gym will require a fairly large room dedicated solely to exercise.
-Lack of equipment: Unless you live in a mansion, you don't have the money or space to include everything you want. This could leave you doing the same exercises over and over again, something you really want to avoid.
-No help: Unless you have a friend that can come over and lift with you, or a parent/sibling that lifts, you have no help at home. When beginning to weight lift you need someone with experience to guide you along; teaching you proper technique, form, and what exercises will benefit you the most.

Where you make better results? At the local gym or at your house.
I trained at my friend's house for over a year, and have been training at my local Gold's for eight months now. The results I have seen at Gold's greatly outweigh those I saw at my friend's house. Gold's has given me the ability to do any exercise I want to. I didn't have that ability at my friend's house, even though we had an adequate amount of equipment. As long as you can stay on task at your local gym (no cell phone, no long conversations with other members), you will see the best results at you local gym. If you are looking to compete one day, you should not even consider training at home. If you are looking to exercise just to stay in shape, I would recommend looking into training at your house. Chances are you can find the same results at home as you would at the gym.

BONUS QUESTION: If you were to create your own home gym, what would it consist of and why?
-Bowflex SelectTech and additional dumbells if needed: The Select Tech will save you money and space. The con is that they only go up to 52.5 pounds. You can always purchase the remaining dumbells you need though.
-Smith Machine: You can get a full body workout on a smith machine. This allows you to do squats, benches, deadlifts, calf raises, bent over rows, shoulder presses, triceps extensions, and drag curls.
-Barbells, E-Z Bar, and plates: Combined with dumbells, they are the staple of any workout.
-Pull Up Bar: Simple and compact way to bulk up your lats.
-Mirror: We all love to pose, but more importantly you can make sure you have good form.
-Adjustable Bench: You can't have a big chest without benching from various angles. To save space, buy a bench that can range from vertical to decline.
-Stretching mat: Stretching is an important part of any exercise program, and nobody wants to do it on a hard floor. Also use it for your ab workout.
-Cardio machine: The bottom line is that you need to do cardio. An eliptical is your best bet. It works you harder than you feel like you are, and puts minimal stress on your joints. I would recommend owning a cardio machine even if you workout at the gym. If you are serious about lifting, this is a great benefit when you are cutting. It is easier to wake up and do your morning cardio at home than it is getting dressed and driving to the gym.
-Radio: Because who likes to workout in silence?

Home Gym Exercises
Legs
(Smith Machine) Squat
(Smith Machine) Romanian Deadlift
Barbell/Dumbell Lunges
Smith Machine/Dumbell Calf Raises

Chest
(Smith Machine/Dumbell) Flat Bench Press
(Smith Machine/Dumbell) Incline Bench Press
(Smith Machine/Dumbell) Decline Bench Press
Flyes at any angle
Pushups

Back
One Arm Row
(Smith Machine) Bent over Row
Pull Ups
Pullovers

Biceps
Barbell Curls
Drag Curls
Dumbell Curls
Incline Curls
Hammer Curls
Isolation Curls

Triceps
Skull Crusher
Tricep Extensions
Dumbell Kickbacks
Push Ups
Close Grip Bench Press

Shoulders and Traps
Seated Barbell Press
Arnold Press
Hammer Press
Lateral Raise
Front Raise
Upright Rows
Dumbell/Barbell Shrugs

Abs
Just about any ab exercise

Good luck whether you train at home or at the gym!

[Future1King]

Gym would be more beneficial due to the fact that if you see built up men, women, teens, in turn would make you wana train even harder to get where you want to get!!!
That's just me.

[Wazzup973]

Which is More Beneficial Training at Home, or Training in the Gym

Training at home or training at the gym both have there pro's and con's, and it really is up to what you like. I’m going to list some things and you can choose which one fits you better.

The Gym
Working out at a gym has many good benefits, but it can be kind of scary or intimidating at times.

Pro's

Professional Help While going to a gym for the first time and seeing a bunch of huge guys walking around and loading up tons of weights may be a little intimidating, but seeing 3-4 dozen machines that you don’t know how to use can make you run out of there with your tail between your legs. Luckily you can get a good personal trainer to show you exactly how to bench, squat, deadlift, anything else and you can get extra time learning what exercises work the best and which are good for wasting time. He will also recommend things like which supplements he uses and what he has heard and you might even be able to meet people through him if your kind of shy.

Equipment One of the best things about a gym is that you don’t have to schedule your workout or exercises around what you don’t have since usually gyms have everything you need and for a much cheaper price then it would be to buy everything that you may need at home.

Spotters having a spotter will definetly help you with your gym gains because you will be able to lift your heaviest weights without worrying about dropping it on yourself.

Being around people Being around people huge or small can give you some people to compete with and really get you motivated. And it’s always nice to meet new people.

Air Conditioning Nothing like the feeling of getting dehydrated and having a heat stroke. No seriously air conditioning is very important and most people with home gyms usually don’t have any air conditioning. I usually have to make do with a fan.

Con's

Intimidating going to the gym for the first time can be a little scary and there is usually one guy that will be a total jerk towards you. Just remember he had his first time to.

Rumors at the gym you hear a lot of misleading information on supplements, perfect routines, sleep, etc.

Lines Nothing is worse then waiting in line for an exercise.

Noise Sometimes a gym can be too noisy and you cannot concentrate.

Driving depends where you live, but for me to go to the gym it takes 20 minutes one way to get there which isn’t very convenient.

Working out at home
working out at home has some benefits, but it is pretty expensive.

Pro's

Any Time If something comes up and you have to change your schedule you don’t have to worry about making it to the gym on time you can adjust.

Private There’s no noise unless you want to listen to music, which I think it gets you pumped up. There are no people talking your head off. And you don’t have to worry about lines.

Customization You can customize your equipment get exactly what you want (as long as you have enough money), and you can customize your room make it motivational, encouraging, making you want to go in there and work your hardest.

Con's

Limited Space Well unless your really rich and have a huge room your going to have to limit the amount of equipment you can fit into your room/garage or wherever you workout.

No Spotter or Help well unless you want to rely on your imaginary friends your not going to have any spotters or help unless your friend is over.

Cost buying good quality equipment is going to cost money I would say a range for a power rack would be 400-1500, a treadmill or another aerobic machine like an elliptical is going to be 500-2000 for a good quality machine, a good set of dumbbells always helps I would go with Bowflex's select tech for beginners because they save space, but once you get past there maximum weight your going to have to buy normal ones. These cost about $350 on the Internet and it depends where you go and where you live in retail stores.

Where I get the best results? I get the best results at home.

I prefer to work out at home and I’m getting excellent results from it. Here are some reasons why I prefer working out at home. One reason is the gym is 20 minutes away from me that’s 40 minutes out of my day and I am extremely busy. Another is I get more motivated and pumped at home usually because guys like to talk my ear of at my gym. As I said what works for me might not work for you it depends on what type of person you are.

BONUS QUESTION: If you were to create your own home gym, what would it consist of and why?

First I would get a decent power rack or cage here are some models I would pick. http://www.bodysolid.com/BSStrength...PR82/WPR82.html,
http://www.bodysolid.com/BSStrength.../WPR382P4S.html,

Then I would buy a treadmill because there are no good running trails around where I live. Here are some models
http://www.fitnessblowout.com/produ...gory=treadmills
http://www.fitnessblowout.com/produ...gory=treadmills

I would get a punching bag, jump rope, some boxing gloves since they are all good for hand eye coordination. I would get weights of course. And a curl bar because doing curls with a curl bar the angled position of your wrist will place a little more stress on the brachialis. The brachialis is the muscle that is beneath the biceps brachi (Top bicep muscle).


Some of Bowflex's select tech dumbbells http://www.buysmartfitness.com/buys...s/01552frm.html

Good luck with your gains.

[bluehazard]

Basement Training
by bluehazard


Introduction

I would never ever train at a commercial gym on purpose if there was another option available. I would rather run down a small tree with my bashed up Sunfire and use it for bench presses in my driveway than go to a commercial gym. Nearly any other style of training would be preferable to wading through the army of 110 lbs self-styled Tuffguyz in their black knit caps and wife beaters training their “tricepts” and “bicepts” to the pounding beat of today’s trendiest music. In fact, I could go the rest of my life without stepping foot in another “health spa” or “family fitness center.”


Commercial Gyms

What about the variety of training equipment? Granted I’m a free weights kind of guy myself, but I will admit that having a few machines around would be nice. In fact, if I had them I would probably use them frequently. It would be great to have a military press machine, bench press machine, pretty much the whole line up of basic Hammer Strength Equipment. What I do NOT need is a line of twenty-five machines to train biceps. That isn’t variety, that’s just flat out ridiculous.
As for the amount of equipment found in most commercial gyms, yes there truthfully is a lot of it. They have preloaded barbells and dumbbells which could potentially save you a lot of time. Unfortunately, it doesn’t really work out that way because people just kind of take the things and leave them all over the place.
Social atmosphere? Old guys walking around the locker room naked, the tough guy crew and a bunch of lazy schlubs leaving their nasty smelly body odor all over every piece of equipment I want to use is not “social atmosphere.” Ok ok ok ok: I know, that doesn’t classify the rest of the people in the gym. I agree, there are tons of people in there. Trust me. I know. I work with the general public, and I absolutely DO NOT want to hang out with them in my spare time.
What it comes down to is that less than 5% of the people there are actually training hard, and guess what, they don’t want to hang out with you because they’re working out. Oh, and in case you weren’t sure, NOBODY there wants to see you making out with your girlfriend, and I WILL “accidentally” drop a 45 lbs plate on your toes if you come near me in your cool-guy sandals. Sandals are definitely not to be worn in the gym; you don’t need your $500 sunglasses or $1600 training outfit either. Some gyms understand this and have a “Line of Demarcation”, aka a room in the back that has nothing but power racks where you’re allowed to use chalk.


Back In the Day, and WTF Happened

Back in the day does not exist anymore at most of these gyms. Anyone who has seen Pumping Iron is in for a big surprise if they step into one of today’s urban sprawl training centers. The majority of people in today’s gyms have absolutely no desire to go and workout. Why? Well, there are a couple of reasons.
Ever see the people that kind of sit around between their pathetically easy sets that don’t challenge them at all reading books? It’s because their significant other makes them go to the gym. Gyms love members like this, it increases their revenue, they don’t make a mess, and they are not at risk for injury. The fact that they’ve been sitting in military press station that you need to use for the past 25 minutes is your problem. A 10cc shot of adrenalin to their heart wouldn’t get these losers moving, they’re too engrossed in their latest 99 cent romance novel from Wal-Mart.
Mass marketing is another reason. Many gyms survive solely on the amount of “New Years” customers that sign up for mailed-out promotions, stay for a few weeks, than are gone forever. These people would NEVER have walked into one of the dungeons of the old days. The concrete walls, flickering lights (all two of them), chalk dust and the twisted faces of people in total agony forcing out that last rep would signal nature’s “flight response” and that would be the end of that.
For this reason alone, many gyms don’t want you to train. I bet at least 1/5 of you reading this have been asked to take off some plates or flat out leave because you were warming up with 225 lbs in the squat, and that is just “too heavy” to use. They make enough money off of the New Years and Post-Thanksgiving crowd, and have no interest in risking you getting hurt. That’s a liability. Besides, they probably even sell the ultra-cool $500 sunglasses and designer workout apparel that will “Get you all the girlz yo, fo sho.”
In conclusion, they want you to spend all day:

1) Sipping from their $8 one liter bottles of water. The water fountain was removed years ago for “sanitary reasons.” In fact, you can’t bring in your own water bottle or thermos because it might tip and “stain the carpet.” Yes, the carpet, where did all of the rubber mats or concrete floor go?
2) Downing insanely marked up protein shakes that taste like camel dung. For real: Camel dung. It’s the newest Beverly Hills fad dontchaknow?
3) Making your “model faces” in the mirror while you show off your 8” “guns” and pumping out your 95 lbs bench press reps. Note: 95 lbs is only for the bigger guys, the majority prefer to rep-out with 55 lbs to get a nice “burn.”


Where Do YOU Think You’ll Make the Best Gains?

Some people are convinced that they would make the best gains around other people. Competition motivates the majority of us. Even being around other people makes us try harder. Well, we’ve just gone over the people at the commercial gym. Will being in the presence of those chumps make you train harder? Only out of fear. I am totally terrified of turning into the fat guy on the treadmill walking slower than a sloth reading about new and innovative ways to bath his cat.
In fact, if you ever even think of training hard, you’re done. Think you’re going to bench 315 there? Nope. First of all, you will be “kicked-out” of that great social circle for the simple reason that it has become accepted that NOBODY can bench 315 without using steroids. Hell, even the big guys (aka, FAT guys) only bench 185. Plus, that puts the gym at a liability, you’re gone. Oh, and don’t even think of military pressing anything near 135. That is also impossible. Worse yet, you yourself may come to believe things like this and never be able to train.
Enter the home gym. I like training in the basement. I live in Buffalo, NY and the winters can get quite chilly here. If I was in my garage, I’d probably freeze to death. (I’m sure a few of you train in such frigid if not worse conditions, for you I have great respect, you are a polar bear with fifteen pound balls of steel.) Plus, the basement has concrete walls and floors, and it can somewhat be a climate controlled environment.
You can play whatever you want in your basement. You can pound Pantera to your hearts content and never have to “turn it down” or off because you’ve offended some old hag that is sitting on an exercycle. Yes, sitting. You can train in absolute silence as well. Even better, NOBODY talks to you. Not once will you be in the middle of a heavy set when some “Master of the Iron” (aka, 6’3”, 118 lbs) walks up to inform you that your form is totally incorrect and that you should train like him.
As for people occupying the equipment you want to use? No way, this is your house. Who the hell are these people? Beat them to a bloody pulp and leave them duct taped in the attic.
At home you compare yourself to yourself. Too many people plant themselves into groups at the gym. They see themselves as about that strong, or big, or lean or whatever, and cannot get out of that group. Humans are social herd animals and can dupe themselves into being far less than what they could have been. At home it’s you versus you, using the weights you SHOULD be using. You don’t get talked out of lifting heavy by “management”, nor do you have to put yourself under what truly are dangerous weights just to fit in with the crowd.
As for the pre and post workout shakes and meals? Damn, $30 could last you a month or so in protein shakes (DESIGNER PROTEIN RULES!), as opposed to 2 days. You don’t need a trainer or slick salesman to push you into buying substandard or worthless supplements either, you have access to Bodybuilding.com, where you can get anything you want, and tons of advice and feedback from weight lifters around the globe.

[bluehazard]

So What The Hell Do You Do?

Well, you’re going to need some space and equipment. Before that, you’ll need some garbage bags. I recommend Hefty Cinch Sacks. Bring whoever lives with you down in the basement. You’re going to need to be assertive here. Decide where the gym needs to be. See all that useless junk that has been collecting over the years? Start picking things up one by one, the family gets FIVE SECONDS to decide if they want it or not. If they don’t want it or five seconds elapses, into the garbage bag it goes. If they do want it, put it directly into their hands it is now their responsibility. If they put it back down instead of rushing up to their bedroom with their treasure, right in the garbage bag it goes. Take no crap. What are they going to do with their collection of smashed matchbox cars? Nothing, trash it.
Ok, so now you have a decent amount of empty space. Time to fill it back up with stuff that you DO want. I would recommend going to BJ’s or Sams Club and purchasing enough of that interlocking rubber matting to cover your training area. This will save a bit of wear on your joints when doing squats, deadlifts or any standing exercises. It will also help protect the floor from dropped weights and other mishaps.
Go purchase a power rack before you get any other equipment. You can do just about any exercise you can think of in a power rack. Get whatever weight set is on sale. When I say weight set, I mean weight set. Weights are made out of metal, not plastic filled with sand. You should be able to pickup a 300 lbs set for around $100. Even better, look in the paper, somebody is probably selling theirs (totally unused) for $20 because they’re going to go hang out next to the old lady on the exercycle at the “Health Spa.” You may be able to pickup an adjustable bench and preacher curl setup off the same schlub. Maybe these lazy folks aren’t so bad afterall.
This should get you started. Next steps would be adjustable dumbbells and more plates. After that, it’s really up to you and what your goals are. You may grab a treadmill, some grippers, thick bars and barbells, who knows. You may even have some cash to buy some machines. Home gyms can get quite expensive, but you should be able to get your basic setup for less than Mr. Pretty spent on his new set of ultra-hip sunglasses.


Conclusion

It’s your body and your life. You could spend hundreds of dollars a year (or thousands if you want to be Cool Guy with the lastest eyewear) to hang out with a bunch of people you don’t like that cause you anger and frustration on a daily basis, or you can get a training partner or two and lift in your basement. It’s really your choice. Now, if you’re lucky and live somewhere that actually has a great gym with hard working people at a reasonable price, than maybe you’d want to consider it. Me, I’m happier in my home gym, and unless I have to move somewhere I can’t use it, in the basement I will stay.

[bluehazard]

Here it is in word, pasting it kinda screwed up the formating.

[chewwy]

I tied in the bonus question somewhat with the home-gym part of my article… hope it's ok.


TOTW 31


Having performed my workouts in a variety of different environments in the past I feel qualified to express my views on this issue, which will hopefully be of some use to you. Of course, I cannot come to any clear answer to this question since it depends on the individual, but hopefully having read this article you will be able to make up your own mind as to what is best for you:


The Gym


Gyms are, by definition, the place to go if you wish to “get fit”. However, I feel this blanket term is much too broad, and the varying features of gyms and your own aims demand you to look a lot deeper into whether a gym is right for you.

As I have said, the features of gyms vary. There are first and foremost the very popular ones, often in chains across the country, which tend to offer a service aiming to please the masses. However in doing this, they tend to alienate those who look for exactly the opposite of this – those who do not want to share their gym with others of lesser experience and different aims to their own. Since the majority of people tend to go to gyms to, as I said earlier, “get fit”, the ardent bodybuilder who is aiming to pack on some mass may not find this environment entirely to his (or her) pleasing. Instead of the machines and plethora of cardio equipment, they should probably be looking for a place that has free weights. Indeed, some gyms may ask those lifting large weights to stop, since they view it as disruptive and dangerous. Oh, and the quality of music in these places is often notoriously... an acquired taste (at least in my opinion).

On the plus side, these gyms tend to be larger, and have many other facilities as well, such as pools, bars, even crèches if you have young children. The laid-back attitude of such places may be welcoming to some, and if going to the gym for you is more of a social thing, this mainstream kind of gym may be right for you.

However, if you have plans to be the next Arnie, you might want to workout somewhere a little more ‘hardcore’. This article - http://davedraper.com/west-coast-bod...ing-scene.html gives you some idea of how the legends of yesteryear worked out, and how far you have to push yourself to get to their level. Such gyms as described here are usually hard to come by, but they do exist, and just require a bit more searching for. The environment may at first seem hostile, but as long as you share the same goal as the others present – to get massive - you should be fine. The equipment may not be as up to date as other gyms, but will by all means get the job done. There’s also something a lot more satisfying in my opinion about lifting a stack of aging iron weights, showing every dint and chip that human efforts have put into them already, than lifting the polished, stainless steel modern incarnations. You certainly won’t have the problem here of being told you are lifting too much weight…

A tip I would give you when looking for a gym would be to look at those in it, and ask yourself truthfully how much they resemble you. Not necessarily in physical appearance, but in their aims, their motivation and their dedication. Although you may go to the gym alone, a gym is still a very public place, and if the actions of others – talking on their cell-phones, letting their children run wild, curling in the squat rack… annoy you now, chances are you will not be happy there in the long run, and this will affect your progress accordingly.

Finally, another issue with public gyms is the cost. Costs vary widely from gym to gym, and there are often different plans pertaining to length of contract and times you can access the gym for each individual gym. How much you are willing to spend is up to you, but I would advise you to shop around before making a decision, since prices really do vary greatly.

But what if you don’t want to pay to go to the gym? What if you don’t want to tie yourself into a long contract, or have the times you can work out dictated to you? What if you don’t have any means to travel to a gym? Of course, there is another way…


Working Out At Home


At first setting up a home gym may seem a costly business, which far outweighs the cost of going to a public gym. However, this is far from the truth. I myself work out at home, and have all the equipment I need whilst having spent almost nothing. So much equipment can be obtained from friends and relatives who have bought the apparatus many New Years ago, but have since condemned it to some dark corner of their home, to never be used again. Likewise, equipment can often be found for cheap second-hand in newspapers and even rubbish dumps. Of course, if you actually want some new equipment, it can be found at a decent price if you shop around. For help, ask in the Workout Equipment forum of bodybuilding.com ( http://forum.bodybuilding.com/forumdisplay.php?f=26 ).

Obviously, you need a place in your home for your home gym. If you live in a block of flats, then working out is going to be difficult. I work out in my garage, which has a strong concrete floor, and plenty of space. Even this floor gets big chunks taken out of it when you drop weights on it though, so you have to be careful. Having found a space, I would suggest you need a bench, a barbell, a couple of dumbbells, and a few hundred pounds of weights (metal, not plastic – they snap) to load on them. That’s pretty much it. No need to buy any of those obscure, expensive machines you see on TV, this is really all you need. If you have a bit more room, you will probably also want to get a squat rack too, so you can do squats safely and with ease. When buying any equipment, make sure it is sturdy – it will pay for itself in the long term, and having a barbell snap while on your back, or a bench collapse beneath you (it’s happened to me…) isn’t a particularly nice experience.

Since you’re at home, you can improvise a lot. I know people who do lunges on the stairs, pullups from trees, and pushups with a backpack full of books on. Indeed, if you’re just starting out you can improvise even further, and perhaps use this workout using only used milk jugs - http://www.teenbodybuilding.com/derek22.htm .

Being at home you’re also close to your supplies of food and supplements, meaning pre and post-workout nutrition is taken care of optimally. You can also decorate your workout area however you want, covering the walls with inspirational pictures of bodybuilding champions, or maybe that special someone in your life who you lift for.

At home you are alone, meaning you don’t have to rush your workout since there is queue building for the bench you’re using, you can play whatever music you want to pump you up, and there is nobody to hear your heaving and grunting. The downside of this means there is no-one to spot you or help if you get into trouble. I have often had a heavy bar come down on me when I’ve pushed myself to hard, and getting out from underneath it is extremely difficult and painful. For this reason, you should probably invest in some equipment with the safety features to prevent this from happening, and you should be ok. The other downside of having nobody with you is that there is no-one to push you on, and you may find your workouts take longer than usual as you take leisurely breaks between sets to go about the household chores or otherwise.

If I was to create my own dream gym at home, it would consist of something like the following. I don't ask for much, since at the end of the day i'm just interested in going in the gym, doing a solid workout, then getting out of there to eat and do other things, as many others of you probably are too, due to our hectic 21st century lives.

• A good, strong sturdy bench, eg: http://bodybuilding.com/store/ptec/won.html
•
• A likewise strong and sturdy power rack - http://bodybuilding.com/store/ptec/sps.html
• Lots and lots of weights, and a selection of bars to put them on
• A pullup bar
• Some large mirrors
• A top of the range sound system (hey, music pumps me up!)

This kind of flexibility in setup is another advantage of working out at home – there will only be a limited selection of gyms in your local area, none of which may totally suit your needs. However in your own home you can create a gym tailored specifically to your needs, providing cost isn’t an issue. If you have a close friend or family member, maybe you could convince them to become your partner and train with you at home, making it a more social experience if this is an issue.


In Conclusion…


In conclusion, I can offer no definitive answer as to where is better to work out. However the points I have brought up above should hopefully give you some idea as to what is right for you. Before making any rash decisions which could turn out to be costly not only in monetary terms but also in terms of your bodybuilding progress, look around. Ask to have a look around the gyms in your area, and compare them. You could even give them marks on their features, for example proximity, atmosphere, equipment and so on. Ask any friends you have who also workout their opinions, and maybe even consider becoming workout partners with them. Then assess the viability and cost implications of setting up a home gym, before making an educated decision.

Where you workout is a big decision, and so I urge you to consider every possibility, and I wish you good luck in your future training.

[JRPDS]

Week 31: home or gym?


Introduction:


Home gym or Commercial gym? That is the question. And in this article I intend to answer this question in the best way possible. The goal is to be in an atmosphere to achieve the best possible muscle mass.

So which is better?

Well are you ready for it? The answer is neither. There are just too many different kinds people lifting to make one final decision. There are those like myself, who thrive in the commercial gym, and then there are others who swear by the home gym. Money is another deciding factor in you choice of venues. Depending on location and home long you intend to workout the commercial center is usually the cheaper of the two. With that being said I will now go over the pros and cons of both the home gym and the commercial gym.

Commercial Gym:
Pros.

-An immediate advantage to the commercial gym is the equipment variety. It is simply ridicules to say that your home gym will have the amount of equipment the local gym contains. More equipment means more variety in your workouts, which is essential to growth.
-I like many others also have a bit of a problem staying on task. This is the beauty of the commercial gym over the home gym. You go there and you have to lift, unlike at home where I may be tempted to stop and watch the television, or go on the Internet. At the commercial gym you are there for one reason, and one reason only, to work out.
-The gym walls are lined with mirrors, so no matter what you are doing you will be able to critique yourself while lifting. This is paramount in my eyes form is the most important part of lifting itself.
-Spotters. To me very few things are important as a spotter. And your commercial gym will have them in abundance. Both staff and other gym-goers will be happy to lend a helping hand. Being able to train beyond failure is what really makes those muscles grow!
-Many gyms will also have very knowledgeable employees who will be able to help you out with any problems or concerns you may have.
-If you have children many gyms offer a daycare facility, a very handy tool. You know your children are safe while your lifting. Which keeps your mind on the weight and helps you pound out those last couple reps.
-The cost of commercial gyms is on average cheaper then at a home gym. Depending on driving distance and how well established the gym is.
-The social atmosphere is something sought after by many. The gym thrives on many different people, you will be able to interact with many others and learn valuable training tips.

Cons.

-A gym is an establishment; they have working hours like any other business. This can be an inconvenience if you have work hours that may not permit you to make in to the gym. There is nothing more aggravating then not being able to hit the gym.
- Inconvenience is the name of the game. People taking up equipment you want to use can be a hassle, something that many may not be willing to go through.
-The music selection at your gym may not be to your tastes. This can be a major turn-off as music really helps you get pumped up and hit the weights hard.
-There are some interesting characters at most gyms, many of them I do not find amusing. Annoying people can break your concentration and ruin a set easily.
-Every gym has them, the uninformed personal trainer who is constantly ragging on your for doing things you know to be correct. I hate hearing about how I should no be bringing the bar all the way to my chest when bench pressing.


The Home gym:
Pros.

-In the home gym privacy is all yours. Working out with no shirt on? No problem at the home gym. Yelling as loud as you want? Of course go right ahead. The privacy and freedom at the home gym is great for those who enjoy it.
-The music selection is all yours. You can jam to the loudest most hardcore music you want while lifting, this really helps set the mood for that heavy squat your about to attempt.
-You will never have to wait to use equipment it is all yours friends. This can increase the quality of your workout when you can have perfectly timed rest periods between sets
- No distractions commonly found at local commercial gyms.

Cons.

-The one major con is the lack of spotter. I think a good spotter is key to any workout, and without one your gains will suffer.
-Equipment variety, lets face it that stuff is expensive. Your going to have to pay the big bucks to get everything you need.
-Any training information you well need well have to be researched, unlike at commercial gyms where you can ask someone there.
-Chances are you will have a lack of mirrors. They can be essential in critiquing and producing great form, which all lifters need.



Conclusion:

Both the home gym and the commercial gym have their pros and cons. So where will you be most successful? It depends on the type of person you are. Therefore there is no clear-cut answer. However I hope I can help you decide which gym is best for you. If you are outgoing and competitive the commercial gym is probably for you. Lots of people to speak too and many to compare yourself too, you will become better as you try to compete with these people and this should produce your best gains. If you are a more to yourself type of person with no interest in competition only to better yourself or you are very picky then the home-gym is more then likely for you. You will be able to make your way through the weights the way you want and better yourself at your own pace.
So it should be remembered that you must choose which way to go on your own personal needs. I don’t believe one is better then other, nor do I think this will ever be true. I personally prefer the commercial gym; it suits my needs well and provides a good lifting environment.
With this in mind make a good choice, and happy lifting.

[stockcontrol]

Having spent many years having done it both ways it is easy to see why there are plenty of people who go either way.
Reasons range from conveinance to being a show off.
Personally I was a member of two gyms over the years while building a small home gym that I now use exclusively.
They both have their advantages and disadvantages.
Of the two gyms I was a member at one was geared more towards the bodybuilder and the other seemed more about getting fit and increasing membership. The ratio of members to equiptment was crazy.
While at the local gyms I loved the variety of machines able to hit every area of your body in different ways, seeing the guy that looked a bit better than you to remind you why you are there, getting a spot when you needed one and of course the ladies.
However what I did'nt like was the que for the equiptment which on occasions allow you to cool down too much and loose focus on the task at hand, the intimidation of the BIG guys who would make you think that lighter weight and good form is a bad thing, the extra time traveling to and from the gym (let's face it, a full time job and family leaves you very little spare time) and the fees.
Of course my home gym has it's pro's and con's too. Pretty much the opposie of the local gym.
In time my home gym has grown to fill a double garage and includes a multi contraption thing that can do all angle bench presses, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, any excersie that requires a high or low pulley (rows, pulldowns, tricep extensions etc). I have 5 attachments for the cable for good variety. Also have a power tower (pull up's, dips, leg raises), hyperextension machine, punching bag, stationary bike, big arse treadmill and of course all the free weight and bars to go with it.
To make this room more like a gym and less like a garage I have done the following.
Layed marine carpet, painted the walls (two a deep blue and two a light grey), put a big mirror where I do my free weights, insluated the ceiling and garage door, hooked up a T.V., DVD player, 5 disk C.D. player, Amp and speakers. To finish it off I have inspirational pictures on the walls (Dorian, Lee, Jay etc).
Having used my home gym full time now for two years I am sold on it.
I choose the music.
I choose the movie while on the boring bike.
I workout at maximum intensity without onlookers. (I don't like a crowd)
I can squeeze in a workout when I otherwise would'nt.
I down a protein shake minutes after a workout.
My wife now uses it all and went from good looking to "oh my god".
No doubt this set up appeals more to me because of the full time job and family situation however anyone who is'nt looking to become Mr O will have great sucess at home and save plenty of money in the long run.
Anyhow, whichever way you choose to go you are on a winner.
To quote Nike "JUST DO IT"

[ravadongon]

WEEK THIRTY-ONE :: Which Is More Beneficial Training At Home, Or Training In The Gym?

By Ravadongon

Many people enjoy the privacy of training in their own home gym. There is no wait to use a machine and they can play whatever music they want- and it's open 24/7. But some enjoy social atmosphere and variety at a gym.

Which is more beneficial, training at home, or training at a commercial gym? That is the question. Where can you make better results? If you choose to build a home gym, what should you get? All these questions and more will be answered in this article.

Commercial Gym

What is it?

A place where different pieces of strength training equipment are available, for members of the gym to use. Membership fees exist and the member must pay them monthly or annually. The member may only use the equipment during the opening hours of the gym (with the exception of 24hr gyms). Commercial gyms generally have greater quantity and variety of equipment than home gyms.

For

- Equipment

It’s very hard to purchase the range of equipment a commercial gym has. If you’re the kind of person who likes to use a variety of equipment, machines and free weights, then a commercial gym is the place for you.

- Motivation

Motivation is probably the most important factor in getting and staying fit. By choosing to work out at a commercial gym you have motivation all around you. Not only does the surrounding of people with common goals motivate you, but also the fact that you’ve just paid for a gym membership with your own money! You wouldn’t want to waste that money by skipping workouts, would you? So if you’re that person who isn’t the most self motivated, get to your local gym and get a gym membership!

- Make New Friends!

OK. A lot of people will probably say you go to the gym to workout, not to socialize, but what’s wrong with doing it after your workout, or even during your workout, by asking for a spot or helping someone out by spotting them or advising them on exercise form. These people have the same interest as you, keeping fit, and could well be people you could learn something from whether it be lifting related or not. Sure don’t go out of your way to befriend and help everyone in the whole gym, but be polite and respect other people, and you’ll get that in return. If you’re an introverted person that needs to break out of that shell, then go to a commercial gym, keep fit and make some friends while you’re at it.

- Safety

It can sometimes be terrifying when working out on your own, thinking of the prospect of a huge amount of weight falling on you when benching, or falling backwards and injuring yourself when squatting… If you’re ever concerned about this, don’t be concerned any more, get a membership at a local gym, and always ask someone to spot you when you feel at risk.

- No sacrifice of space

Gym Equipment can take up a fair bit of space, and often you’ll need to make sacrifices in order to create that space. If you want to avoid doing this, then get a membership at a commercial gym and keep that extra space for whatever it maybe!

Against

- Intimidating

For some people getting themselves into a gym can be quite a scary prospect and harder then the actual workout itself! If you feel intimidated, then you’re too self conscious. Whatever you do don’t throw yourself in the deep end straight away and go to a hardcore gym, where everyone’s a beast and no one’s total is less than 1500lbs! Go to a more welcoming fitness center, where there’s sure to be lot’s of people in your position, just starting out…You’ll feel much more comfortable. Don’t back away if you find it intimidating, conquer your fear. If you can conquer it, you’ll find you’ll be a whole lot more confident as a person.

- Waiting Queue

How annoying is it when you want to use a piece of equipment and you find out that not only is someone using it, but others are also waiting for it. Most of the time however you should be able to get around this by doing an alternative exercise, e.g. switching from dumbbells to barbells, however if this continually is happening, let the owner of the gym know, and he’ll do something about it, hopefully.

- Privacy

If you like to have privacy when you’re working out then working out at a gym can be quite frustrating. You can’t listen to your own music, you have people talking constantly making unnecessary noise, while you’re trying to lift the most weight you can. It’s not exactly ideal for the majority of us. You can always get an MP3 player but that does cost a fair bit of money, which could be used in better ways.

- Fees

If you’ve chosen to go to a gym with good quality equipment you’ll more often than not find some incredible membership fees (in a bad way!) that you will be required to pay monthly or annually. If you’re not a big earner you’ll often find that you’ll need to make some sacrifices to pay the membership every month/year, not something that you want to be doing for too long.


Conclusion – Who is it for?

Commercial gyms are ideal for like to use a variety of equipment. They are also great for people who lack motivation as well as introverted people who need to break out of their shell. Extroverted people can benefit from a commercial gym, but if they are easily distracted then it would be best if they workout at home. So if you’re one of these people then you’re best bet is to buy yourself a gym membership, and start making some progress.

[ravadongon]

continued...

Home Gym

What is it?

A place in the owners house where different pieces of strength training equipment are available, for the owner to use. No membership fees exist (only the owner must purchase the equipment in the first place) and the owner is free to use the equipment when he wants. The quantity and variety of equipment is invariably less than commercial gyms.

For

- Convenient

Sometimes your hectic lifestyle and schedule can get the better of you. You end up finishing work only to realize that the gym is closed, so you’ll have to move today’s workout to tomorrow. The same thing happens again tomorrow and you find yourself in a position where you’re wasting money on this gym membership because you never have time to go there, and when you do have time, it’s always closed. If you’re this person don’t let this happen to you. Buy some equipment to keep at home for when this happens to you, it doesn’t have to be fancy, just a simple rack, barbell, weights and bench. That way you can always have time for your workouts no matter what the time!

- Privacy

Can you no longer stand those blabbermouths at the gym, who are always annoying and distracting you when you’re trying to get through an intense workout. If you can’t then get yourself some equipment and make a home gym, so you can workout in privacy and be able to focus at nailing those heavy lifts. As an added bonus you can put on your own music full blast, to further maximize your concentration.

- Cheaper (Long Term)

You might be shocked at first at how expensive some of the equipment for weight training is, but when you put things in perspective it isn’t really… Think of the cost of a years gym membership. You could be paying that for over 2 decades, and there’s no doubt the fees will continue to increase from where they’re at. Think of the cost of a power rack, barbell, weights, bench and other accessories such as adjustable dumbbells. When you add it up, purchasing your own gym equipment is much cheaper, so don’t wait if you’re considering purchasing your own equipment and you have the money, get in quickly get the equipment and save the money for your other needs and wants.

- No queues!

I’m sure everyone here hates waiting in line for something, whether it be for a piece of equipment at a commercial gym or the queue to purchase tickets to a football game. Well one of the great things about having a home gym is you don’t have to do this. This gives you the opportunity to get through your workouts a lot quicker, saving you time and increasing the intensity of the workout.

Against

- Distractions

It can be very tempting to go do something else between sets of an exercise. Sometimes you may have to workout while your favourite TV show is on and you may give into temptation and postpone your workout till tomorrow, or maybe you receive a phone call from a friend, and you end up talking for over an hour. Working out at home makes way for numerous distractions and if you’re that kind of person that is easily distracted, then training at home probably isn’t best suited for you.

- Lack of motivation?

The home gym is all ways there right? It’s not like you have to pay a membership or anything? You can always put of today’s workout for tomorrow…

This is another problem with home gyms… There’s not a huge incentive to workout even though you’ve paid money for it, it’s always going to be there and you can always do it the next day. This is NOT what you want to be doing, if you truly inside want to keep fit, but you lack motivation. If you’re that person then again, the home gym probably isn’t the best option.

- Unsafe

It can be quite a daunting prospect benching a huge amount of weight for low reps with no one spotting you. What if you miss that last rep? Who will be there to help you out….

I’m sure everyone you trains heavy and works out at home, has had this though cross their mind. Good news is you can avoid it from happening. You can do this by getting a power rack. Power racks are designed with safety bars so if you miss a rep the weight will drop on the bar, not on you, and when you’re squatting you can always drop the weight back if you can’t make a rep and no damage will occur to the equipment. If you wish not to purchase a power rack for some reason or other, then training with a friend or two would be a good idea, when lifting heavy.

- Range of Equipment (money and space)

Building a home gym with the range of equipment available in a commercial gym, for the average income earner would be impossible. Sure the majority of time we should be training with free weights, but some people like to add a little variety and train with machines every now and then. With a homegym this is very difficult, not only because of the money available, but also because of the space available.

So if you’re that person who enjoys using a wide variety of equipment then consider training in a commercial gym not a home gym.

Conclusion – Who is it for?

The home gym is an excellent choice for people who like to use the minimal amount of equipment . They are also great for people who cannot concentrate in the environment of commercial gyms due to their surroundings and busy people who find it hard to find time to workout. So if you’re one of these people then you’re best bet is to purchase some of your own gym equipment and start up your own home gym!

BONUS QUESTION: If you were to create your own home gym, what would it consist of and why?

Firstly I would choose a room free of and away from any distraction, and with plenty of space for equipment with room still to be able to move around. The equipment I’d choose to purchase would be:

Power rack (with chinup and dip attachment) – Takes care of all the major compound exercises e.g. bench, squat and deadlift, military press

Adjustable Bench – allows you to perform lying exercises at flat, incline and decline points.

Standard Olympic Bar (Elieko) – Allows you to perform all barbell exercises with a standardized bar.

Adjustable Dumbbells – Allows you to perform all dumbbell exercises

Bumper Plates – allows you to drop a loaded barbell without the plates shattering. Good for Olympic lifting.

Bands, Chains and weight releasers – powerlifting gear for developing max strength.

Reverse Hyperextension machine – great for strengthening the glutes, hamstrings and lower back, so you can up your deadlift and squat numbers.

Mirrors – so you can always maintain good form and avoid any nasty injuries.

Stereo – There’s nothing like working out to music that psyches you up for those big lifts.

This is only my choice though, however if I had to tell you the bare necessities for a decent home gym it would be, a barbell, weight plates, an adjustable bench, power rack (preferably with a chin up and dip attachment). This takes care of all the basic freeweight exercises, as well as their variations. So if you are going to invest in a homegym, remember those four.

[bigcalves]

Which Is More Beneficial Training At Home, Or Training In The Gym?





As people want to look better, more and more gyms pop out. Some gyms are full with fancy machines and shiny dumbells, while some gyms are covered with rust and are unapealing to the general public. Gyms are a conviniet way of paying for alot of machines and equipment that you can't have anywhere else. Gyms are full of people which can be a good or bad thing and most gyms have people that are well experienced and willing to help out beginners. Shiny machines and mirrors make gyms an attractive place to train, get out of your regular lifestlye and meet different people. Most gyms are open through out the week and there is no problem finding time to workout. Now depending on where you live, some transportation may be needed to get to your training place. To some this might seem great, while to others it's an obsticle in the journey to getting bigger and stronger.


Working out at home can be an entirely different thing. Since you are alone, and at home, it takes you less than a minute to go there, and you can workout virtually anytime you want to. At home you can set up equipment that you only use and have minumal traveling distances (those that have been to Gold's in Venice know what i'm talking about) from station to station. Working out at home means there is no one looking at you. If you are overweight or self-councious about yourself you can feel good and workout at your fullest. No people can mean no motivation or 'competing' and that can be a draw back. When you are done you don't have to drive home. Having a gym at home is good for beginners as they tend to be shy, but at home you can learn all the extercises, get your poundages up a little, and stay focused. Working out at home is kind of pricy too, because getting everything you need will cost money that you need to prapare all at once to set you your own weightroom. Plus there is accessories that you can buy and it can get pricy, but at the end it's worth it.





THE GYM



The gym is a place of competition. There is a monthly fee that you need to pay, and a possible starting/charging fee when you sign up. Going to the gym is fun and most people enjoy the atmosphere. There is a sense of competition between lifters and you are pushed to your limit. If you lack motivation the gym is the best place to go to. You can compete with people, their lifts and what they do. Now don't go out and be an jerk and show off to people, and make people feel uncomftable. In the gyms there are more machines that you can use. Usually too much. There is a machine for every muscle and then some. There are alot of free weights and cardio equipment. Most gyms offer stretching area with big rubber balls and stretching mats. Also most gyms have a locker room and a lounge/restoraunt where you can get comftable and sip on you PWO shake. Some gyms have sauna, steam rooms, jacuzzi and a pool. There can add to the pleasure you get in the gym. An average person could spend 1-5 hours in the gym, working out, eating, going to the sauna and relaxing in the pool. Getting a gym membership can be very efficient too, when you don't have alot of space or money for home gym equipment you can benefit from the convinience of your local gym. Going to the gym can also be a safety issue since most people are willing to spot and no one will help you when you are home alone stuck under the bench with 315lbs on top of you. People will be willing to spot and help you push youself to the max without getting hurt. Some lifters at the gym are very experienced and are more than willing to help you on achieving your body and setting up a routine. Remember not to annoy anyone and talk to them all the time, and people will accept you and help/correct you in a positive way.



OVERVIEW


- Friendly atmosphere
-Competition between lifters
-Extra motivation
-Lots of equipement
-People willing to help out/ Spotters
-Room for stretching, lifting etc..
-Random equipment such as belts, chalk and chains
-Sauna and pool to relax in
-Juice bar that offers viriaty of protein rich foods
-Personal trainers and special help
-People to socialize with




The gym can be a negative place too. Depending on where you go you can go in a gym that is unmotivated and lazy. People talk and don't do any work and get in your way. Other gyms can be filled with jerks that are trying to intimidate you with their looks because of their own self-problems and insecurities. There's people that will get in your way in the gym on purpose and try to distrupt your workouts. If that ever happens you should talk to the gym managar. Sometimes the gym can be crowded and if you are trying to use the bench, and there's 6-8 teenage boys working on their ego's forget about having a chest workout. On weekends and rush hour, the gym and cardio equipment can be filled with people and all the benches and stations could hace 1+ person on them and that can be unmotivating and uncomftable. Depends on where you live, some gyms can be pretty far away from you, and it's time to invest in a home gym if the nearest gym to your house is 50+ minutes away. Although rare, it can happen and if going there and back takes 2 hours you won't be so commited after a few weeks. Also some gyms can get pretty expensive, if your gym has alot of features and luxuries your fee can go up to 70-100+ dollars a month and that's alot for most of us. Most gyms play crappy music but you can always bring your own MP3 player and put an end to all the oldies and terrible songs playing. Not all the people at the gym are motivated, have goals and know what they are doing. Some will chat on their cellphone for a long time, or some will sit and talk to people.



OVERVIEW


-Annoying people
-Unmotivation
-Jerks in the gym
-Crowded gym
-Too far away
-High expenses
-People with no goals
-Not enough free weights





HOME GYM




Working out at home can be a wonderful experience. Your gym is open 24/7 and you can go in there all the time and workout as much as you want to. Your food and showering is just as close and there is no problem what so ever with anyone. No waiting in line for people to finish benching or being stared off as you bench by jerks in the gym. There is no terrible music playing, since it's your gym you can control if there is music. If you like music, you can set your favorite song, as loud as you want with no problems or people complaining. Also privacy is a big issue. Since you are at home no one will know what you do. So if you are self-concious or just don't like people looking at you when you are all sweaty and pumped, the home gym is the answer for you. You can workout in the privacy of your own home, without unwanted faces staring at you. If your not so good at balancing your checking book, late gym fees can be a hassle. Being overcharged is something everyone hates, especially if it's your gym costing you extra money. At home, everything is free and you don't have to answer to anyone. Some gyms ban chalk, yelling and droping dumbells. If you are the aggressive type and like using alot of chalk on your deadlifts, and screaming each rep as the heavy poundage repped out and finally dropping it down declaring that you are king, then the home gym is perfect. You can do virtually anything you want, without any consequences.



OVERVIEW

-Open 24/7
-Privacy
-Choice of personal music
-Choice of training style
-No jerks from the gym
-No gym fee
-Did I mention privacy?



Working out at home can have it's negatives. Since you are all alone motivation can be a problem. Personally I like 'competing' with guys in the gym. Doesn't have to be about weight, but form, commitment and intensity. I like working out and pushing myself to the fullest. At home you are alone. You are at a familiar setting, and that can have a negative-i'll do it tomorrow-gotta watch tv attitude that will get you no where. Also since there are no other people, you can bet that no one will be able to spot you as you rep out that 315 bench and get stuck. If you have clips on, it can be quite a hassle getting rid of the plates crushing your chest. In that case remember to leave the bar clip free, so in emergency you can slip the plates off and walk off safely. No spotter means you can't push yourself to the fullest and that can be a problem to many people. Working out at home means you can't afford all the equipment at the gym. Since you can't do that not all your workout needs will be met. Unless you have 5,000-10,000 saved up for gym equipment to make your home gym the envy of the neighborhood, then you cannot get sufficient workout equipment. Also not alot of people have a big basement to put all the stuff in so limited space is also a big problem.



OVERVIEW


-Not enough $$$ for equipment
-No Spotters
-Not enough space
-Distractions
-Lazyness/Lack of motivation
-Safety concerns
-Moving all the stuff in/out














CONTINUED...

[bigcalves]

CONTINUED









Where you make better results? At the local gym or at your house.



It doesn't matter where you train. Building hard, lean muscle means that you have to tear your muscle fibers, feed them with proper nutrition and rest. So if you have those down you shouldn't worry since you are doing everything right. Training can get mental. Imagine you are training in a pink room, with posters of Hello Kitty. You have every machine and free weight imaginable, and the music of your juice. Now, do you think you could get a good workou? My guess is 'no'. Motivation comes from within, and what you see, your body processes it and makes you act in a certain way in a certain situation. So if you don't like the gym you workout in, and it's too 'girlie man' for you, my advise is that you would make better gains at home. But if you have a decent gym near you, and your basement is the size of a phone booth then I would advise you to go to the gym. Just workout at both places and see which one you like better. If you like the gym then for all means go there and have intense workout. If working out at home motivates you and pushes you to your limit then workout at home. Just do whatever feels right for you body and you will meet your goals in no time. Just remember that home gyms can be more costly, but at the end if it works for you, you only buy the equipment once so why not invest in yourself and transform into the beast you've dreamed of becoming.





BONUS QUESTION: If you were to create your own home gym, what would it consist of and why?



As I was writing this article, I was looking forward to getting into this section. Currently I workout at a local gym and I'm very happy with it. I've always dreamed of the perfect home gym. Since it takes a good amount of money and space I couldn't afford for a state of the art home gym. For me that kills it. If I workout at home, I want the best thing that money can buy. Having a home gym can be bad for some people that need motivation from watching others workout, but if you are like me and have motivation and desire from within it shouldn't be a problem. Just focus and make goals and all the motivation will come, unless your training in the Hello Kitty gym I described. Just make sure that you wait and save up, and then spend it on wise product that will make you forget the gym and workout at home with no trouble or lack of equipment. Secondly, look for space. All my life I've wanted a home gym but space at home has been limited. I could never set up my 'dream gym' because of issues with money and space. If I could have unlimited amount of money, and space things would get crazy. Anyways, here is what I would include if I were to create my own gym at home.



A set of Dumbells
No matter where you are you need them. Dumbells are your friend and you should always use them with free weight extercises. I would make sure that I have a pair of dumbells from 15 to 180-200 lbs. Sure some of you might not use these high weights, but as time comes you will grow and get stronger.


Barbell with Weight Plates
Barbells are necessary for workout. Squats, Deads, Bench, you name it and you are using a barbel. All you need is one, since you are at home and you can move the bar around.


Bench Press
Face it. The most traditional extercise, and you will need it. Make sure to get a bench that goes to all three levels (Decline,Flat,Incline) and your set.


Power Rack
Make sure to get a quality power rack. Make sure you can do squats, dips, chin ups and other extercises within.


Simple Bench
Make sure you get a simple bench for dumbell work. Also you can put this bench in the power rack and easilly train shoulders with barbel military presses.


Stereo
You need music. It motivates you and pumps you up during a workout. Make sure you get something strong with alot of bass but don't overdo it if you live in an apartment building since the noise can be an issue.


Mirrors
It might sound useless, but mirrors are an important tool. When you see yourself you get motivated and you can also watch your form and prevent injuries and other problems.


Air Conditioning/Fan
When you are all sweaty it can get pretty bad up there, so be prepared and always have a fan on circulating the air.


Posters/Decoration
Sure it might not be necessary but if helps you, why not post that picture of Ronnie Coleman or Lee Priest on your wall for extra motivation.






Well this is it, I hope you decide on a gym and most importantly, grow.
Good Luck!

[debo4601]

Is there away to get a list of all the bodybuilding shows that someone has competed in ?

[hepennypacker52]

Is there away to get a list of all the bodybuilding shows that someone has competed in ?

Wrong section...

[hepennypacker52]

Gym, or Home Gym : That is the Question

Foreword : Before we start things off, keep in mind that an advantage for a gym would equate to a disadvantage for a home gym, and vice versa. I didn't type anything twice, because it would be a waste of space. So when you see an advantage for a home gym is privacy, know that a disadvantage of a commercial gym is no privacy.

One of the problems that puts many new or experienced bodybuilders into a bind, is the decision on whether they want to purchase a membership to a gym, or invest in equipment to create their own home gym. Each choice offers it's advantages, and each has it's own disadvantages. One thing that you have to consider first, is what kind of bodybuilder you are dealing with. The decision of a novice bodybuilder would be different than the decision of a experienced and dedicated bodybuilder, maybe. While something would seem more practical, different people prefer different things. For the following genres of bodybuilders, we're going to take a look at the practical advantages and disadvantages of choosing to workout at a gym or at home.

First, we are going to take a look at the general advantages/disadvantages of working out at a gym, or at home. These pros and cons apply for any type of lifter, with any experience.

General Advantages of Working Out at a Gym

• Atmosphere. You are in the lifting atmosphere, and this motivates you to lift. You see others around you, and you give it your all on every set so when people watch you, they say, "wow, this guy's an animal."
  
  
• Equipment. You're not going to want to spend $100,000 on expensive gym equipment, gyms have it all for you. Whether you want a plethora of cables, or a hip abductor machine, the gym is going to have it. This greatly expands the list of exercise options you have when designing a workout program.
  
  
• Spotters. There's always people at the gym, and if you ever need a spot, there will always be someone to ask. This is crucial for maintaining proper safety while lifting. A 300lb bar crashing on your neck is no good.
  
  
• Dumbbells. This could go under equipment, but I look at it as a different category, because it's huge. It is much too expensive to buy your own set of dumbbells ranging from 5-150lbs. This is another huge advantage for working out at a gym. Dumbbells give greater range of motion, and are more flexible to your body mechanics.
  
  
• Price. In the beginning, it is much cheaper to get a membership to a gym for a year than it is to buy enough equipment to have your own reasonable home gym.
  
  
• Conveniences. Gyms offer things like protein shakes, towels, day care, tanning, massaging, and steam rooms. These aren't all necessary things, but they do make the lifting experience more comfortable for some bodybuilders.

General Disadvantages of Working Out at a Gym

• Distractions. You go to the gym to workout, not to chat with other members. Gyms can be too distracting for many people, whether it be their workout pals or fitness chicks, socialization in the gym takes away from your workout.
  
  
• Lack of freedom. You can't just do whatever you want in a gym, things that you would do at home that would embarrass you, like screaming or grunting. You also can't sprawl across the middle of the gym floor after a set of squats.
  
  
• Waiting in line. A lot of gyms get extremely crowded during certain days and times, and those days and times may be the only day and time that you can get to the gym. If you're doing a fatigue related workout with short rest periods, this becomes impossible when there's a line to use the squat rack.
  
  
• Location. Sometimes, the closest gym to you, won't be that close. It becomes very inconvenient to drive 30 minutes away to get to the gym. This might even stop some bodybuilders from doing their workouts because they don't feel like driving 30 minutes to workout.
  
  
• Hygiene. For the most part, gyms are pretty clean. But I'm sure that you wouldn't like to walk over to the bench to find a nice little puddle of sweat where your head is supposed to go, thanks to the 300lb man trying to get in shape.

Now that we got the general advantages/disadvantages of a gym, let's take a look at the general advantages/disadvantages of a home gym.

General Advantages of Working Out at a Home Gym

• Your own personal sanctuary. There is nothing like having your own gym, where there's no lines, no socialization, and nothing to hide. This is your domain. You can play your own music, curse as loud as you want, and even cry if needed so.
  
  
• No membership fees. Your home gym is your home gym, there's no monthy membership fee. You can even charge your friends a small fee to come over and workout in a line-free gym.
  
  
• Less confusion. Bodybuilders working out at a gym will sometimes get too wrapped up in all of the different weird machines and cables that they will forget about what adds slabs of muscle the best, free weights. When you workout at home, your gym is compromised mainly of free weights, so you are almost forced to use them. Which is a good thing.
  
  
• Gym hours are 24/7/365. Your gym is open every single day of the year, and that means you can workout on whatever day you have time. Gym closings for holidays and renovations can be inconvenient, and can throw you off schedule. Being able to workout whenever you want opens up your schedule, and this is especially helpful to those with busy lives.

General Disadvantages of Working Out at a Home Gym

• Equipment costs. This is the most obvious disadvantage to starting a home gym. It can be very expensive to set up a nice home gym, but the investment may be worth it.
  
  
• Lack of a spotter. This is a disadvantage only until you take advantage of it. Having no spotter can be very dangerous, being trapped under a heavy bar is deadly, literally. All you need to fix this problem is to find a training partner or spotter (friend or family), or invest in a power rack. Power racks have pins in them set at proper heights so that if you drop or lose control of the weight, it falls on the pins, not your neck.
  
  
• Motivation. It can be very de-motivating to have lonely workouts all of the time. There's nobody there to push you to get that extra rep, and nobody to tell you to screw the 5lb increase, make it 15. This problem can be simply solved by finding a dedicated training partner.

A Look Back

Now that we have the general advantages and disadvantages of working out at either a commercial gym or home gym, let's take a look at what would be the better option, generally speaking. For a commercial gym, we have 6 advantages, but 5 disadvantages. A home gym only has 3 disadvantages, and they can all be fixed. It is clear here, that choosing a home gym is generally the better option, and is worth the investment. There are just too many disadvantages to working out at a gym.

[hepennypacker52]

Continued...


Now that that's covered, it's time to get more specific. Like said earlier, the advantages/disadvantages of a novice bodybuilder and an experienced bodybuilder are going to be different. We're going to take a look at these different advantages/disadvantages, and pull out what choice is better suited for that type of lifter. Whatever advantages and disadvantages on these lists will already be in addition to the general advantages/disadvantages, they will just be more specific.


The Novice Bodybuilder

The novice bodybuilder is the lifter who has maybe heard good things from his friends, or has picked up an issue of Muscle & Fitness out of curiosity. They like what they've heard and read, so they are going to give weight lifting a try. The thing they don't know, is if they're going to like it or not. They could enjoy it for the first 3 weeks, and then lose total interest and stop. They could love it, and never stop. There are different cases for each novice, but the general advantages and disadvantages remain the same. Let's take a look at them :

Gym Advantages

• No attachment. After your initial 3 or so months of your membership is up, you can either stop going to the gym, or re-new your membership. This is a huge advantage for the novice. If they decide that bodybuilding isn't for them, they can just stop.
  
  
• Personal training. The novice is going to have no idea what to do, and a personal trainer would be perfect in this situation. Granted the novice could read some book and teach himself, having a personal trainer can be much easier and safer.
  
  
• Atmosphere. The novice lifter may love the whole gym atmosphere, everybody there working to get a better body. This could motivate the novice to want to lift harder and become more dedicated.

Gym Disadvantages

• Bad influences. When you go to the gym, there's always people there demonstrating terrible form, and using their ego to lift. This can be a bad influence to the novice, because they don't know what's right and what's wrong yet. They could try and emulate this people and end up hurting themselves.
  
  
• Intimidation. If a novice lifter is weak and out of shape, it can be very intimidation for them to enter an environment where most of the people are much bigger and stronger than them. This can make the novice want to quit, because he doesn't want to make himself look like a fool lifting such light weights.

Home Gym Advantages

• None. Besides no bad influences and no feelings of intimidation, there are no big advantages for a novice to spend a lot of money on a home gym that they may not even use for longer than 2 months.

Home Gym Disadvantages

• Cost. It will be bad for the novice if they spend a few hundred dollars buying a home gym that they will end up only using for 2 months.
  
  
• Confusion. When you're at your home gym, it's just you and the weights. No personal trainer is there to tell you what to do and how to do it, you have to learn things for yourself. This can sometimes be a struggle for beginners, and can discourage them and make them want to quit.

The Fate of the Novice

It is clear here that we can come to the conclusion that it is much more reasonable for a novice to first purchase a membership to a gym. There are many advantages to it, while there are no advantages to a home gym. Once they become more dedicated and know they are going to stick with it, then they have the option of investing in a home gym.


The Advanced Bodybuilder

The advanced bodybuilder is one who has been lifting for about a year or longer, and knows that there is no stopping soon. He knows what he is doing, and his diet and training are spot on. Let's take a look at the advantages and disadvantages for this type of lifter.

Gym Advantages

• Use of equipment. This goes a bit further than in the general advantages. The advanced lifter will need plenty of different exercises to make sure he doesn't hit a plateau fast, and the wide variety ensures that the lifter will have multiple exercises to choose from.
  
  
• Motivation. Seeing a hardcore lifter that is a little stronger than you can motivate you to push it even more during your workouts so that you can catch up to them and be the top dog of the gym.

Gym Disadvantages

• Cost. This is the biggest disadvantage, and is a killer. You're probably going to have to spend a few hundred dollars a year on gym membership fees, and it adds up.
  
  
• More distractions. When people see you lifting that heavy weight, you're going to always get a bunch of beginners coming up to you during your set asking you how you got that strong. The last thing you need to focus on during a set is what some punk beginner is saying, you need to concentrate on the set.

Home Gym Advantages

• Cost. This was mentioned as a gym disadvantage, but can further be emphasized. In the long run, it is going to be more cost-effective to purchase the equipment for a home gym.

Home Gym Disadvantages

• None. There are no major disadvantages for the advanced lifter owning a home gym.

The Fate of the Advanced Bodybuilder

It is clearly obvious that the advanced bodybuilder is better off owning a home gym. The main reason for this is because of the cost, the gym fees would add up over the years and end up costing much more than a home gym.

So You Wanna Go to a Gym?

Now that we've gone over the main advantages and disadvantages of commercial vs. home gyms, you have decided that you want to obtain a membership from a gym. This could be because you are a beginner, or it could just simply be preference, and that you love the atmosphere. So now you've decided that you are going to go to a gym, now you have to know what gym to choose. I will briefly name the types of gyms out there, and why you should or shouldn't look into them more.

Fitness Center/Health Club

Fitness Centers are the place where you usually find mostly old people on treadmills. Fitness Centers usually have a nice range of equipment, plenty of cardio machines, and are the most luxurious of all the types of gyms. Fitness Centers may have pools, tanning beds, snack bars, boxing rings, air conditioning, towels, or TVs. This is because most of the people at these centers are overweight or old, and mostly do cardio. You will also find a lot of "fitness chicks" here, which can at first sound attractive, but can also be a BIG distraction. There is a lot of socialization going on, mainly with the "fitness chicks", and you must not fall into this trap! The biggest benefit to a fitness center is that there usually won't be long lines to equipment, especially free weights. You also have all the benefits of the little conveniences that Fitness Centers offer. But if you know that the girls will distract you, you have to be strong and know that you can't go there.

Gyms

These are your average gyms, and can be a great choice for some. There's more focus on equipment than cardio machines, but there are still plenty of treadmills and ellipticals. There's not as many little bonuses, but there is still usually air conditioning. Lines for equipment can be long on busy days, and this is the biggest downfall of a standard gym. On a busy day, the wait time will make it impossible for you to do everything without having a 3 hour workout. If you avoid the busiest hours or go early in the morning, you should be able to avoid all of the midday traffic.

Hardcore Gyms

These are the gyms where you find all of the screaming freaks who are huge and lift weights that make your eyes pop. A lot of the pros train at these gyms. An example of one of these gyms is "Gold's Gym". There may not be air conditioning there, and you won't find all of the little conveniences there. There isn't much socializing going on there, aside from the screaming and grunting. The gym is compromised of a lot of free weights, which is great, because free weights are the biggest mass builders. The biggest disadvantage to one of these gyms is the intimidation factor. The pros are huge and strong, and can make you feel very small and weak.

[hepennypacker52]

Continued...


Which One Should I Choose?

Well, that depends. If you can handle straying away from the fitness chicks, and are a picky person, a Fitness Center could fit you best. I would not highly recommend a normal gym, only because of the lines. If you can handle the intimidation factor, a Hardcore Gym would be the best choice, because of the equipment, and training with the pros can be motivating, not intimidating. Location also plays a role. If there is a Hardcore Gym an hour away, and a Fitness Center 15 minutes away, you are probably going to choose the Fitness Center. These kinds of choices are very individualized, I just wanted to give you an overview of what each type of gym is like, so you can get a general idea.

The End is Here

So, to answer the actual question, when the advantages and disadvantages of a gym/home gym are looked at, it can been seen that training at home would be more beneficial. There are advantages to working out in a gym, but there are bigger advantages to working out at home. Training at a gym can also have many disadvantages, enough to make a home gym the better choice. It must be remembered though, these choices are very personalized. If you make the choice to train at a gym, you now have an idea of what sorts of gyms are out there, and what gym would be the best choice for you.


BONUS

If you were to create your own home gym, what would it consist of and why?

300lb Olympic Weight Set

• Weights are the most fundamental part of a home gym, and are essential. You can't lift weights without weights. A 300lb Olympic weight set is the best starting route, because 300lbs should last a while, and the plates are bigger, so you don't have you buy a million 10s like you would on a standard weight set. Once you need more weights, just buy 2 more 45lb plates, and you're set.

Bench with Incline/Decline, Leg Curl/Extension Attachment, and Preacher Curl Attachment

• A bench is the second most essential piece to a home gym. Get the one with attachments and you can do bench presses, military presses, leg curls, leg extensions, preacher curls, and decline crunches.

Power Rack

• Having a power rack is a must-have for a home gym, especially if you don't have a spotter. Having a power rack will allow you to be able to squat, and if you hit failure, you can just lower the weight on to the pins. The same goes with other exercises like bench press (you will pull the bench into the rack). You can also do great exercises like rack pulls, pin presses, static holds, and most power racks even have a pullup bar on the top.

Adjustable Dumbbells

• Buying separate dumbbells is much too expensive. Adjustable DBs are the best option here. You can buy standard plates, and load them on. DBs are great, they will greatly broaden your exercise selection, and provide a great range of motion on many exercises.

Home Gym System

• An actual "home gym" can be a great addition to a gym at home. If you get a good one, it will provide you with a good amount of cables to use, and most home gyms have a leg press. You can do things like leg press, pull downs, press downs, cable rows, cable curls, machine crunches, and many other exercises.

Treadmill/Exercise Bike

• For people in certain locations, it's impossible to do cardio outside in the winter. Having a treadmill or exercise bike is perfect for this situation. The person is able to run or bike and get some good cardio in during the winter, that is if they're not shoveling snow every day .

Punching Bag

• A punching bag can also be a fun alternative to cardio. You can pick out combinations and repeat them to get in a good sweat, and develop the power and speed of your punches at the same time.

EZ Curl Bar

• This is a great addition to a home gym. The curl bar allows the lifter to do numerous lifts without putting as much strain on the wrists as a straight bar would (ie curls, tricep extensions).

Rope/V-Bar for Cables

• Getting different bars for your pulleys will allow you to train the muscles in different ways from different angles. It also broadens your exercise selection.

Weight Tree

• A weight tree greatly helps organize things, and keep your gym clean. They are all neatly on pins, instead of scattered all over the floor, where they are a hazard.

Lifting Chalk

• Lifting chalk helps your grip on heavy exercises like deadlifts or shrugs. Where a heavy bar might normally slip out of your grip in your sweaty hands, the chalk will keep things dry and from slipping. You don't want to drop a bar on your toes.

Lifting Straps

• Lifting straps serve the same purpose as chalk, to help your grip, but straps are a little better at this. The bar is actually strapped to your wrists, so your wrist is partially supporting the weight. This makes it easier on your hands. Be careful though, if you totally drop the weight, the bar can pull your wrists out of position, and that is a serious problem.

Knee/Wrist Wraps

• Knee and wrist wraps help lifters that have bad joints. For example, a person that has bad knees would have a hard time squatting because of knee pain. Knee wraps would help this.

Dip Belt

• Dips are a great exercise, but soon enough you'll need to add weight to them. The most effective way to do this is through a dip belt. You can also use a dip belt to do weighted pullups and chinups.

CD Player/Radio/Portable Device

• Tunes in any form can help pump you up for a big lift. You can have a radio, or a portable CD player. If you use a portable MP3 player or something like that, make sure it doesn't get in the way at all.

Pen and Paper

• You're going to need some kind of journal to track your workouts, and see what progress you've made. Without a journal, you don't know what your lifts were last week, therefore you don't know how much iron to add to the bar this week. You must record your workouts.

Yoga Mat

• Some kid of pad is good for laying on the ground to do abdominal exercises. You don't want to lay on a cement floor, that will destroy your back.

2x4 Blocks

• With 2x4 blocks of wood, you can increase the range of motion on calf raises, and do exercises like board presses.

Box

• Box squats are a great exercise, and for this you need a box. It would be best to have a box that you can adjust the height of, that way you can squat to different depths.

Mirrors

• Multiple mirrors around the gym would be a must. You can do a quick mirror check during a set to see if your form is good, or bad. If it is bad, make the necessary adjustments, and check again.

I have also added a picture of my home gym in my basement, I have almost everything on the list above, I just need some mirrors.

[Kill_yourself]

Which Is More Beneficial Training At Home, Or Training In The Gym?


Before we go to a one answer conclusion on this topic, let’s just view the factors that helps you to make that decision. After all you are the one that will be having that balls to the wall workout.

Training at home
One person that loves to workout at home is none other than Lee priest. He feels that using your own gym allows for more concentration and would thus lead to massive growth.

Pros of working out at home
1)Privacy
With no one around to bother you in whatever that you are doing, you can fully devote yourself to training exactly the way you want to, without having to be afraid of someone looking. Remember the times you wanted to try an extremely technical exercise but was afraid that someone might be laughing at you, So you decided to strap it?
Now with a home gym you would have no worries about that and you could devote fully to trying out what works for you through trail and error.

2) Open 24/7
This is very useful for people that have a irregular schedule. For most of you guys, you work 9-5 jobs so it wouldn’t be much of a problem. But what about the guys that work a job that has inconsistent time slots? With a home gym, it is open specially to you anytime and at any day; even on Christmas.

3)You make the rules
You choose if you want the lights on or off. You choose if the music should be heavy metal or classical. You choose if you want to put a bucket nearby just in case you puke after squatting. The main idea is that you run the show. No one tells you it is against company policy or any of that rubbish. If you wanted you could slam the 800lbs barbell on the concrete floor sending a loud bang throughout the room. And still no one would complain.

4) No Bull****
Since there is no one to disturb you, you wouldn’t run into any situation where you would be preparing to squat 700lbs and some dude decided to do his 1lb dumbbell curls in between you and the mirror. Nor would you have some chatter boy that is dying to ask you 1000 questions about you secrets while you are in the middle of working out, so these little problems that you run into at the gym and mean the difference between a good workout and a kick as workout.

5)Cheaper to travel there
Unlike a trip to your local gym, where you would either have to spend money on either petrol or other forms of transport, a home gym can help you save the little amount of money.

Cons

1) Expensive
The weights, machines, plates, cage, stands and benches cost a lot of money. A good and complete home gym could easily set you back around $15000. So this is one of the major down sides of a home gym which cause many people to stick with a commercial gym. So unless you have the spare cash and space to spend, this wouldn’t be a good choice.
2) Unsafe
Especially in bodybuilding, one of the most important factors we should always bear in mind is personal safety. And when you are all alone in the basement gym, cranking up that new song by slipknot, psyching yourself into one more set of 700lbs squat, you fail to realise that you are alone. You become so focused into doing that set that you forget that if in the event that you fail in the last rep, no one will be there to spot you through that 700lbs squat. If you twisted you leg while the weight was crashing down, you better pray to god that someone will find you soon, or else you are pretty much done for. The bottom line is that you will not be able to get a spotter every time, so things may get pretty dangerous when you are working out alone.
3) Lack of Atmosphere
When you put a gym in your home, you will also face one major problem. Let’s face it, everyone treats a home as a place of comfort; a place rest; a place where you can dump your exhausted body on the bed forever. The last thing you would associate your home with is a hardcore gym. So when using your home gym, you wouldn’t feel the need to change into your gym attire. You would be in your flip flops and wearing only your boxers to that gym of yours. So because of this you will feel the lack of motivation to keep pushing yourself to the limit, which could be why you would not attain any new growth. So unless you have an ever growing motivation within you and also to stay disciplined in doing your reps and set, a home gym would be detrimental to your progress.
4) Maintenance
Machines and weights need constant maintenance and cleaning so that they do not rust. Especially for machines, if they do spoil it is very troublesome to get it repair. Since you would most probably not have the time to do these small chores, machines will be expected to break down every once in a while. And sometimes, in times when you need them the most.

Training at your local gym

Pros
1) Cheaper
If you were to compare the membership fees to the price tag you would have to fork out for a home gym, a local gym is definitely much cheaper. So for those people that are unwilling or unable to pay that hefty price tag, a membership scheme at your local gym would be a best choice.
2) Less troublesome
Since your membership is paid, the maintenance and cleaning of the place is done even before you step into the place. Everything is spark and clean unlike a home basement gym.
3) A Place to Gather
A gym is no longer just a place to workout. It has evolved into a place to socialise and make new friends. That is a very useful way to stay motivated. Knowing that there is a friend of yours that is doing the same hardcore workout as you and is still hanging in there, eating his final piece of chicken breast, really gets your tune into the bodybuilders mindset. It constantly allows you to think that if I skip one meal or if I skip one workout, your gym buddy will grow bigger than you. And the thought of that disgust you so you stick with it. And also the gym is also a place where you meet your friends. In a similar way that girls meet each other to hang out at starbucks, guys hang out at the gym.
4) Atmosphere
Since you will have your friends there to socialise with, you will automatically be tune into the mood to workout because everyone else in tune into that mood. So unlike a home gym where you would have to keep drawing motivation from within yourself, a local gym can provide you with the mental edge that you need to break that one rep max.
5) A larger range
Since a local gym is a place of business satisfying customers needs and wants would be its top priority, therefore you will definitely be able to find the dumbbell of your choice and machines of your choice too. You wouldn’t ever have to worry about not having enough 45lbs plates for your squat because that will never happen.
6) Safer
Because of the constant supervision of the instructors and your friends around you, a spot is practically a hand sign away and anyone would be more than willing to help you with that 700lbs squat you have been trying. So you would not need to fear getting buried under a ton of weights. And also to a certain extend, with this fear away from you, you will be able to life more, because you know that in the event that you miss that rep, there will be someone to spot you.

[Kill_yourself]

Cons
1) Waiting
It happens in all gyms except your very own home gym. Waiting. Something that has cause many gym goers frustrated and pissed off. Especially during the peak hours, it would be surprising to have 4 people sharing one bench press machine and 4 people in queue for their turn. Just the sight of it can sometimes turn you off from that bodybuilding mindset. So unless you will be able to hit the gym at its non peak hours, use a home gym because the waiting time at a local gym is definitely going to be frustrating.
2) Annoyance and distractions
I bet you have seen people shouting and screaming and slamming the weights and even playing in the gym. These people can cause a great deal of disturbance to your focus and would possible cause harm to your workout. Ever tried to shoulder press 200lbs when some dude stands in front of you with his wife talking about their days? I bet it happened a lots of times. The only way to escape that would be to have a home gym where no one can distract you.
3) The hassle
when going to a local gym you would have to fulfil certain dress codes. It would be very troublesome if you intended to go to the gym after work. You would have to carry your office things and also a gym bag. For those who drive, it would not be a problem. But for those that don’t it can be quite a hassle.
4) The time spent travelling
Going to the gym can be pretty tiring. Some people stay nearer a 45 mins train ride away from the gym. So if you were to do that everyday on top of your 12 hour work schedule. You would have practically no time for anything else.

Conclusion
After analyzing the pros and cons of both home gyms and local gyms, I would still have to go with a local gym. The main concluding factor is that hefty price tag that I would have to fork out for a workout at home. Though It would be cheaper in the long run, I don’t expect myself to be staying in the same place for that time. So if the price of the home gym will be equal to the price of membership in a local after 10 years, I would long moved to another house and the transportation of these weights will cost me another bomb of money. And because I do not have that kind of space and cash lying around, so a local gym would be the choice. Furthermore, the I am not able to be contented with a lousy and cheap home gym, the local gym can provide me with my necessary tools for my hardcore workout.

Bonus:
My home gym:

1)Power rack
I NEED MY SQUATS. It is as simple as that. I would only use a power rack for my squats and I will not be contented with doing some light weight lunges in an attempt to replace squat. Plus a power rack can be used for any things too. A bench press machine, shoulder press machine, pull up station etc.

2)Bench
this is also one of the high priority items to get. A bench that can go incline flat and decline.

3) adjustable Dumbbell
This is the best way to have a large range of dumbbell with having to buy the whole set. A good creative mix of the small weights and there you have it; a heavy dumbbell.

5) Weights
last but no least, all the range of weight plates for various purposes.

So if I were to have a home gym these are the things I would need. But then again since I love the local gym so much, I wouldn’t have a home gym.

[TheMind]

Truth or Dare?

Dare?

I Dare you to find even a single person who’s ever attempted bodybuilding, even a half-assed attempt, who could honestly look me straight in the eyes and say that the sport is not at least 95% mental. Do that and you’ll either have found a pathological liar or someone not fluent enough in English to know the meaning behind their words.

If you wish to succeed, the single most important factor is your desire. Your commitment. The size of your marbles. Can you jump into the dark abyss, daring to reach the other side? Come on Neo, can you make the first jump? No one ever makes it their first time.

Sound off topic yet?

What is success in bodybuilding? Is success being the biggest? Is success being shredded like Donald Trump’s bank statements? Success is damn hard to measure, it just depends on what you’re looking for: comparison between results and goals. Success in bodybuilding is a measure of personal satisfaction with how you look and feel, plain and simple.

So where in the hell are we going to get our best results? Rockin’ out in the basement of our own home pushing plates, or showing the iron at the local gym the paternity test results. That’s right, who’s your daddy? I’m your daddy. Grrrrr.

Let’s face it, if you have the right attitude you’ll succeed in either scenario. Your results will be a direct product of the effort you put into your ventures. Your muscles don’t care where you are; they care about how hard you push them, and in what direction. But this choice is not a decision by your muscles, they’re so apathetic in the matter that it actually goes right past not being funny and becomes laughable again. It’s about where you, as a conscious being, feel most comfortable and able to produce your results. Sure, money talks pretty loud too, but we’re ignoring that. So Ha.

Ok, so we can’t ignore it completely: Money talks. Loud. Like, screaming. Megaphone maybe? Let’s face it, we’re not all Bill Gates. I couldn’t buy a good home setup if I tried my hardest, which really limits the options in the “home or gym” consideration. Most veteran bodybuilders would agree that a solid home gym should consist of at least a set of dumbbells (or adjustable dumbbells), a fully adjustable bench, and hopefully a bar with a set of bar weights. Ideally you’d have a power rack, weighted belt, lifting hooks, and at least one poster of a gorgeous woman on the beach.

What? No BowFlex?!?

No. No BowFlex. If you want to drop $2,000 on some exercise equipment, do it right. I don’t care what kind of fast results guaranteed stuff you see on TV from some grandmother in a bikini. You’re going to lift for real, not for TV. If you’re going to go the home route, get yourself some good free weights.

But, but….Power Rod Technology!!!

Ok, get a BowFlex…..but first, send me to the link where Ronnie Coleman praises his Bowflex. Surely he got his results using his BowFlex in his spare time from the comfort of his own home in just 6 weeks, for only 20 minutes a day, 3 days a week. He did, didn’t he? [/sarcasm]
My aunt/uncle bought a Bowflex about November of last year. It is the ugliest, most expensive, and least comfortable chair in their living room. That is its sole use, and my cousin whom lives in that same house is a fitness fanatic who would rather do bodyweight exercises than use that machine. Wanna buy one that bad? Please, buy theirs.

So what sounds more reasonable for you? The costs of buying all of this equipment and having a place to store it all, or the comparatively low price of gym dues? It depends both on how much money you’re willing to spend, and how seriously you plan on sticking with your program. If you’ve been lifting for a few years, and plan to continue for a lifetime it may actually be cheaper to buy your own equipment than to pay dues, but often times this is not the case. However, there are many other factors that may determine for you if it’s worth the extra money to purchase your own equipment as opposed to going to a professional gym.


“Confucius say ‘To move heavy iron, you need Heavy Metal.’”

I can’t imagine a person who truly feels they are more focused and stronger without powerful music to back them. Few things have such an immediate emotional effect on the human soul as music does. You want to lift at your most intense? Find your Kill Music and play it loud. Everyone has some music that just grabs you by the guts and whips you around the room in a murderous rage, ready to attack relentlessly and without fore-thought. Most agree Heavy Metal is the ideal lifting music, but personal tastes may differ, or at least that’s what they tell me.

You’re the King of your Castle, right? Feel free to nod, no one’s looking, promise. No one tells the King what he can and cannot do, if you want to shake the house with the pure power of your Kill Music while lifting in your Castle go right ahead. Blast it how you want it, no exceptions. This is your world….Get in the zone. You’ve the freedom to play what you want, when you want, at the volume you want (unless your neighbors are jerks, pfsch). The flexibility in this department is nearly unparalleled.

But what about in the gym? Can’t we torch the place to the blazing chaos of our Kill Music? Well, sometimes…but don’t count on it. Chances are your gym environment will have a single radio/CD player that is shared by all those in the gym. Whether they’re benching 350lbs for 5 reps or sitting on that silly foot-pedal thing watching TV and reading a magazine, chances are they’re listening to the same music source. For some odd reason, most casual gym-goers are offended by real Kill Music. They think it’s obnoxious and harsh, pfft. The best they’ll likely accept is some AC|DC. Sure, you want Machine Head, but they’re playing Lenny Kravitz. However, there is a godsend for we gym patrons who know the real power of music in the gym.

Portable MP3 players anyone? Getting cheaper by the day, these can be a lifesaver in a public gym in so many ways. Put on your headphones/earbuds, crank up your Kill Music and you’re invincible to the ColdPlay and Britney Spears that other patrons are being bombarded with. The only “oops I did it again” that belongs in the gym is the afterthought that briefly crosses your mind after you bite Mr. Incredible(aka the 6’2”, 114lb toothpick who won’t leave YOUR power rack)’s head clean off to the power of “The Blood, The Sweat, The Tears” by Machine Head. “Oops” is right, maybe you should have stayed out of my gym and bought yourself a BowFlex, Hulk. Now, time for squats!

It’s been proven true that MP3 players are the magic gym accessory. Not only do they overpower the depressing sounds of a tired radio, it acts as an obvious sign that you’re not here to play games. We’re here to lift, not to talk about taking Whiskers to the Vet. Don’t get me wrong, we love Whiskers, but when we enter that room, that sanctuary, we’re here for the pain. I don’t care how your day is going, thanks. I’m here to lift, and go have a life. I am in my own world, piss off. No, I don’t want to spot you. Because inevitably in the public gym there will be people whose primary goal seems to be to disrupt everyone else’s workout.

You see, this is the public domain, free for anyone with money (ironic, eh?). See Joe over there, talking to other patrons as they try to politely escape? Doc told him he needs to start going to the gym if he’s going to live past 45. Too bad the man didn’t tell him he actually needs to do something constructive, but now that’s your problem. You may be surprised how many people in the gym have absolutely no clue what they’re doing, but long to tell everyone about how much they hate their property taxes. They’re interesting, really. No joke, very interesting. This is where we put on our headphones.

Distractions and delays are bound to be everywhere in the public gym, and are almost all unavoidable. Someone’s on the leg press that I need, I can’t find another 35lb plate that’s not in use, that girl over there is FINE, Ugh there’s Robert from the office…He’s going to want to talk. The best you can do is to try and avoid busy hours, which may not always be possible depending on your own schedule, and is an inconvenience at best.

Consider the alternative, however. You walk into your gym(basement/garage) and turn on your music. You’re really feeling this, it’s great. You’re on rep 3 of 8 in your second set of dumbbell presses when the phone rings: what do you do? I can hear the hardcore lifters screaming ”let it ring!”, but theory and application are so often not the same. Maybe it’s my wife? Maybe my father is in the hospital? Maybe whiskers died? Maybe it’s that radio contest I signed up for? You drop your db’s and quickly rush to the nearest phone, “Hello?” After some nearly incomprehensible dialogue you reply “No, Mr. EnglishIsClearlyNotMyFirstAndLikelyNotMySecondLang uage, I do not with to switch long distance providers. Goodbye.” Before staring back at the bench calling your name. It’s time to get serious, and you pump out another set of 8 as the sweat slides down your face. You’re into your third set when the door cracks open. “Honey, can you come carry in groceries?” That pretend question haunting you as you struggle to put up the weights. You know it’s not a real question; real questions have more than one answer. “Yes” you are forced to reply as you are again dragged away from what was supposed to be an intense workout.

The point is that either situation can have multiple degrees of distraction, which can be minimized at either location but rarely avoided altogether. Usually, however, the home is a more distraction-free environment. If you are single, or have an understanding family, you will often not have to worry about being bothered.



Continued...

[TheMind]

Continuation:



In the home there are other great advantages. Travel time and expenses to and from the gym are undoubtedly lesser. Hard to deny that. If you want to wake up early and work out before taking a shower and going to work you can easily do so without having to pack a bag, dealing with wrinkles, and having to get up an extra half hour early to get to the gym. Post workout meal? You’re already two rooms away from your kitchen. Sitting in a bean bag chair, naked, eating Cheetos prior to your scheduled workout time? Pfsch, clothes are for the weak. No blood, no foul. But that one’s much harder to pull off at the public gym.

Regardless of which you choose, it is important to have the mental control to leave your problems at the door. When you step into that gym, whether it be your local YMCA or your basement, it is important that everything else stop and that your workout becomes your primary focus. Concentration on every rep, on perfect form. That’s where you’ll get your results. It doesn’t matter where you’re working out, you owe it to yourself to put forth that effort. If you can put forth the same mental effort, both scenarios will prove to have the same results for you. It’s just a matter of finding where you’re most comfortable and are able to concentrate the best. Is the woman on the hip abductor with the short shorts and sports bra a distraction or a motivating image? Is it too easy to end your workout early or skip a workout altogether when you’re already at home? How much am I willing to spend on my health? How hard am I going to work at this? Will the Yankees win the Series? These are all important questions you must ask yourself before you decide which is better for you.

So what’s better? Personally I’m a fan of the home gym, but you should decide for yourself. After all, I’m a poor 19 year old college student, not your mother.

[dragontraining]

hennypecker, why do you use three pages? you can fit all of them on one... stop trying to make it look bigger.