Without question, there are pros and cons to owning your own garage gym. Many swear that switching to a garage gym was one of the best decisions of their lives. For others, it is not even an option. Here are some reasons why some may make the switch while others stay with their conventional gym.
Pros
Convenient
It is much easier to workout when all you have to do is go through a door, instead of driving to the gym. Whether it’s 5 am, noon, or midnight, it doesn’t matter. It’s always open and with no commute, a lot of time can be saved.
Saves Money over Time
Rather than spending money on a membership, which is probably between $30 and $150 each month, you can create your own home gym. It all depends on what you want to have, but one can definitely create a strong garage gym for under $1,000, and it will last for a very long time. There is also resale value if you decide it’s not needed or want to upgrade.
More Freedom
There are certain things you can do at home, that you just can’t do in public. In the garage, there is nobody to judge you, so feel free to wear whatever you want, work out like a crazy person, blast music, and take up as much space you need. You can even let your dog workout with you.
No Lines
There is no hoping that the gym isn’t as packed as it usually is and you can use whatever equipment you want.
Customize-able
Add equipment based on the goals that you want to reach. You’ll also be able to “decorate” the gym with your ideal surroundings (Posters, Flags, Figurines, etc).
Cons
Upfront Costs
Although garage gyms save money over time, the initial investment on equipment can be expensive. A solid rack, barbell, and set of bumper plates can cost between $500 and $2,000.
Takes up Space
If there is no extra space in your garage, you may need to park a car outside, or at least while working out.
Inconsistent Temperature
If you live in an area with the four seasons, there are going to be times when your garage is too cold, and times when it is very hot. Although there are ways to help out with this issue (a fan in the summer or insulated garage walls for the winter), it is not something most conventional gyms have to face.
Easier to Quit
All you have to do is walk back inside your house if you don’t feel like continuing. It takes a certain type of discipline to get through your workouts on certain days.
You can do both!
Yes, more expensive, but there are definitely benefits to having a conventional gym + owning some equipment. In an ideal world, you would have the option to choose your workout location each day. If you are short on time, do a 15 minute WOD in the garage. Need to be social? Go to the your gym, take your time, and find people to talk to. Or, you could just invite some friends over to workout with. In the end, there are pros and cons to a garage and conventional gym. Therefore, do both, if possible.
Want to build or add to your garage gym? Click here for more suggestions.
-Jake (@jakejaworski)
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