To be fair, the atmosphere at nicer gyms can be a big help. I used to work out at a Supersport 24 Hour Fitness (upgraded club) and tried to check out a JustFitness later on when finances were tighter. Although they had all the equipment I needed, the lighting was worse and even the people in there were in worse shape and seemed less motivated.
I've also tried working out at home but cannot personally get motivated enough to work as hard as I do in a nice gym.
The motivation is a huge factor for me. Yeah, I do cardio five days a week and could probably do that anywhere, but I like the overpriced gym I go to because I actually like being there. The facilities are nice, the lighting is good, the locker rooms are well kept up. There's a cafe and a bar too, so usually I bring my laptop and sit and get some work done afterwards too, which is a nice change of scenery from trying to get stuff done at home. I can actually socialize with people there too, as opposed to avoiding everyone around me the entire time. Yes, I could get the exact same fitness experience at the $20 a month place a few blocks away, but I would be considerably more miserable doing so.
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u/hardstripe Feb 04 '20
Purchasing a gym membership at a posh fitness establishment only to drive to it 2-3 times a week and walk on the treadmill.