My Gym Dilemma

Recently, on a walk with one of my co-workers, we got to talking about our workout routines, mainly all the planning that goes into making a workout actually happen. I have a commitment to myself to have no zero physical activity days during the week—and I keep that promise by doing a significant amount of planning each day so that I get my workout in.

First, I really have no excuse not to go to the gym, ever. I am a member at a gym right near my apartment, literally a three minute walk away. Not only do I have a gym near my apartment, but there is also a gym where I work that has a shower and towels, and I have my own locker. Then, in addition to the gym near my apartment and my gym at work, I also teach fitness classes at a local YMCA—about a 15-minute bus ride away from my apartment—so I receive a discounted membership.

I know what you’re thinking…what’s the dilemma??? This girl has three gyms!

The thing is, all gyms are different and offer different opportunities and amenities—which ultimately can make planning easier and the experience more enjoyable.

I love visiting the gym near my apartment—it’s small, cozy, and clean. There’s a salt water pool and hot tub. The locker rooms are equipped with hairdryers, toiletries, lots of towels, and excellent water pressure. I am always greeted by friendly trainers, have access to lots of fitness classes, and occasionally am surprised (and delighted) by free samples. As you can imagine, this gym is pricey, and for someone just out of college, it isn’t exactly affordable—but I use it a lot and so it’s been worth it to me.

Having said that, this week, I tried changing up my routine, did a bit more planning, and attempted to make my cheaper gym option work. I was amazed what a difference just a little extra planning could make.

First, I found that, due to the strange layout of Boston’s public transportation system, my commute to work is quicker when I take the bus 15 minutes further from my apartment and downtown Boston (basically going in the opposite direction of where I need to eventually end up), and then catch the “Express” bus back to Boston, in place of the train I usually take. Confused? So was I… but, I gave it a try and it was much faster! I’m not talking about a few minutes of saved commuting time… this was 20 minutes faster! (I also got a seat on the bus, and the seat next to me was free, so I could spread out. I usually just barely fit in the train.)

Second, I dug out a few extra towels from my closet the night before and put one in my gym bag so I wouldn’t forget to pack it in the morning. I also put aside gym clothes, work clothes, and fruits and veggies for the work day. This was the part of my planning that I really disliked, but doing it made me feel more prepared for the day ahead. I did have to set my alarm for a little earlier, but I also got to the gym sooner than I thought I would because there isn’t much traffic at 6 a.m.

I got my workout in and I’m pretty sure I burned more calories walking to and from the bus and work because of the heavy gym bag I had to carry with my towel, toiletries, and shower shoes.

So what did I learn?

A little extra planning (5 minutes at most) and just 10 minutes less of sleep, was what it took to get me to the YMCA. I could see myself pulling this stunt off again, and might even cancel my expensive gym membership someday… we’ll have to see about that!
 

by sailGirl on 03/08/2012 | Share Story With a Friend

tags: exercise, planning, strategies