So, you’re ready to join a gym. It’s an exciting first step that can lead to many positive benefits for you physically and mentally; your health is one of the best investments you can make. Taking the time and energy to stay fit can save you substantial healthcare costs down the line because regular exercise increases longevity by reducing the risk for cardiovascular disease, stress, obesity, and high blood pressure. Plus, it makes you look and feel good!

Gyms are convenient; they have all the tools you need to get in shape, and they force you to put some money on the line -- which can be a key motivator for some. But with the average gym membership floating around $100 per month ($1220 per year) it's also a substantial monetary investment. But getting in shape is really not about the money. It’s about taking care of yourself so you can have a functional, healthy, long life.

So the first question you should ask yourself is, ”am I worth it?” to which you should always reply, “OF COURSE I AM.”

Even though there’s a big list of pros to joining a gym, and we’ve established that the expenditure is an investment into your future and well-being, it is still a bad one if you are not willing to also invest your time and energy to utilize the facility. So it is important to really take the time to figure out the following:

HAVE YOU CLEARLY IDENTIFIED YOUR GOAL?

A clear, achievable fitness goal, if thoughtful and well structured, can give you the extra incentive to keep going to the gym when motivation wanes, or when life otherwise gets in the way. Pick one thing you want to crush—like doing a pull-up, losing one pant size, gaining muscle mass, or completing your first-ever 5K—and channel your efforts into achieving that before exploring another goal. But keep the bar low and obtainable.

Know that you are not going to achieve your goal in one week, or even in a month. Pick a goal that can be achieved over the course of several months because the long-term mentality will help you see your goal as a lifestyle change, rather than a quick fix; you’ll be much more likely to adhere to it.

HAVE YOU DONE THE RESEARCH TO KNOW EXACTLY WHAT IT’S GOING TO TAKE TO REACH YOUR GOAL?

Losing 5 pounds sounds like an easy goal. But do you really know what it will take to achieve? Knowing what you will need to do is helpful: Do you need strength training by lifting weights? Do you need to participate in a HIIT Class or do you need to use the treadmill? Do you need to cut back on carbs and keep a nutrition journal? Do you need to add protein to your diet? All of this might sound like a lot to change as you determine how to achieve your goal, but keep in mind: you've already done the bulk of the work making your health and wellness goal a reality.

WHAT’S YOUR MOTIVATION?

Whatever the reasoning behind the motivation to exercise, it must come from within a person for true meaning to be attached to it. Sometimes, for example, fitness goals are driven by underlying fears, insecurities, or body image issues—like wanting to run a marathon because you were bullied in middle school gym class. What is your underlying motivation?

Investing in yourself—by investing in the gym, a trainer, or wholesome foods—not only comes with myriad health perks, but it also prepares you for the unexpected challenges life throws your way. But to have a successful health and fitness journey, first you must define your goal, research your goal, and figure out the motivation behind your goal. If you need help in any step, our trainers at Success Studio are here to privately discuss these things with you at a Complimentary Assessment. It’s a great way to get started! Are you worth it? OF COURSE YOU ARE!