With New Year’s resolutions, many people sign expensive contracts so they can drive to a gym, lift weights, run on a treadmill, ride a stationary bicycle, and/or take aerobics classes. What a waste… as reported in a previous post, the Census Bureau reports that U.S. fitness and recreational sports centers took in over $17 billion in revenues during 2005.
I simply cannot understand why someone would want to pay to exercise indoors, when they can exercise for free outside? I’d rather hike up a mountain than use a stair-master in place. I’d rather run outside than on a treadmill. I’d rather split wood than lift weights. What do you think?
Instead of paying to workout, why not volunteer to do some good with your efforts? I’ve volunteered in the past maintaining the Bull Run—Occoquan Trail, working to clear trees and brush, haul out trash, and install erosion control devices. I’ve also heard that Habitat for Humanity is a fulfilling place to volunteer while getting some exercise. What do you think?
7 Comments
I have to agree with you on this. Some of are really want to make ourselves feel better about they way they look and the gym is one way to do so. Others use it as a way to get away from the daily lives if they are not happy with it. Also others used it meet new people.
I suppose if a gym membership is the only way someone can motivate to work out, then they’re not all bad…
Keep in mind the weather though! Also, there is a safety concern, especially for women at dark in the suburbs. Think about the poor girl who got killed in Georgia on New Year’s Day. Lots of freaks out there…
Good point, Jon, especially about safety. I’ll try to write another post soon about exercising indoors at home (w/o a gym membership).
I stumbled here by accident but will stick around!
One thing that has not been mentioned is the strategy of the major fitness complanies. They know that at least 50% of those who sign up for a years membership will tire of coming very quickly. The company has their money, a legally binding contract, and then has space to sell memberships to new suckers.
Excellent point, Jay. Another strategy the gyms use is contests for free memberships. They’ll call and say that they didn’t win the 6 month or year membership, but they are awarding a consolation prize of a free month. Then the whole time the person is visiting the gym for their free month, the gym aggressively tries to sign them up into a long term contract.
Thank you for your informative post!
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