Should I Join a Gym or Hire a Personal Trainer?
It’s that time of year where a lot of us reflect on embarking on a fitness journey, and begin by asking ourselves: Should I join a gym or hire a personal trainer?
While both options can help you achieve your fitness goals, they cater to different need, different people, and personal preferences. Let's explore together the pros and cons of each to help you make an informed decision.
The Case for Joining a Gym
Gyms offer a wide range of equipment and classes, providing flexibility for individuals who prefer to work out on their own, enjoy a variety of fitness activities and are self-motivated. Here are some benefits:
- Cost-Effective: Gym memberships are often less expensive than personal training packages, and they cater to a wide range of budgets. A 2022 survey by Statista found that gym memberships in the UK can range from as little as £20 per month for basic access to over £100 per month for premium facilities, making them accessible to a variety of income levels.
- Flexibility: Most gyms are open early in the morning until late at night, allowing you to fit workouts into your schedule. Some gyms even operate 24/7, which has significantly improved accessibility for those with non-traditional work hours or busy lifestyles. For instance, a 2021 report indicates that 38% of gym members prefer attending early in the morning between 5 a.m. and 9 a.m., while 29% attend in the late morning between 9 a.m. and noon. With the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) reporting that extended gym hours led to a 15% increase in member retention.
- Variety: Access to machines, free weights, cardio equipment, and group fitness classes means you can diversify your workouts. Many gyms also offer additional amenities such as crèches for parents, swimming pools, racquet courts, and even cafés, making them a great choice for individuals or families looking for a comprehensive fitness and lifestyle solution.
However, there are a few drawbacks:
- Lack of Guidance: Without proper knowledge or a structured plan, it’s easy to plateau or risk injury. A study published in the Journal of Sports Medicine and Physical Fitness reported a 144% increase in workout-related injuries between 2012 and 2016 compared to 2007 through 2011 highlighting the potential dangers of unsupervised exercise.
- Motivation Challenges: Many people struggle to stay consistent without external accountability. As I wrote in my last blog, research shows 50% of new members quit after six months and 80% of people cancel their membership after the first year.
- Gym Anxiety: If you’re new to exercise or perhaps don’t yet have the confidence in your ability or knowledge gyms can easily feel intimidating, which can be a significant barrier to maintaining a consistent fitness routine. Often referred as "Gymtimidation," is a common experience where individuals intimidated or self-conscious in gym environments. This can stem from concerns about appearance, performance, or fear of judgment by others. For instance, a survey by MyProtein found that 42% of respondents experience appearance-based anxiety when working out, and 23% avoid the gym through fear of judgement.
The Case for Hiring a Personal Trainer
One of the most asked questions I receive is: “How much is personal training?”
Hiring a personal trainer is always going to more expensive than joining a gym, and while it might seem like a significant expense upfront, it is an investment that pays dividends in the long-term. Look at personal trainers a little like financial advisors; just as your financial advisor helps you build security around wealth, a personal trainer helps you build security around health (and fitness), offering returns in the form of better physical and mental well-being that a standard gym membership may not always provide.
Long-term studies, such as a 2018 review in the Journal of Exercise Science and Fitness, highlight that individuals working with personal trainers show sustained improvements in key health markers like cardiovascular health, muscle strength, and body composition compared to those relying solely on gym memberships.
A personal trainer provides tailored guidance and accountability to help you reach your goals effectively. Here’s why this option stands out:
- Personalised Programs: A trainer creates a workout plan designed specifically for your fitness level, goals, and any limitations. Journal of Sports Science and Medicine, found that working with a personal trainer can increase your fitness level by up to 57%, which in no mean feat. Research from the National Strength and Conditioning Association indicates that individuals working with personal trainers often reach their fitness goals up to 30% faster than those training independently, due to tailored strategies and consistent adjustments to their programmes.
- Accountability: Regular sessions keep you committed and consistent. According to a study in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, individuals with personal trainers reported higher levels of motivation and adherence to fitness routines compared to those training alone. Trainers provide structured check-ins and goal-setting strategies, ensuring progress stays on track.
- Education: Trainers teach proper form, technique, and the principles of fitness, reducing the risk of injury and improving results. A report in the Journal of Physical Activity and Health revealed that individuals who worked with personal trainers developed greater confidence in performing exercises independently, with 85% of participants reporting they felt more prepared to work out alone in a gym setting after receiving professional guidance. This education fosters long-term consistency and adherence to fitness routines.
- Efficient Progress: Studies show that individuals working with a personal trainer are more likely to achieve their fitness goals compared to those training independently. For example, a study published in the Journal of Sports Science & Medicine found that participants with personal trainers improved their strength and cardiovascular fitness significantly more than those without.
On the flip side, personal training can be more expensive than a gym membership and requires scheduling sessions, which may not suit everyone’s availability.
Questions to Ask Yourself
- What are my fitness goals? If you’re targeting specific outcomes, like weight loss or strength building, a personal trainer may be more effective.
- Am I self-motivated? If you’re disciplined and enjoy working out independently, a gym might suffice.
- Do I need accountability and structure? If yes, a personal trainer can provide that critical support.
Combining the Best of Both Worlds
Both gyms and personal trainers offer unique benefits. Your choice depends on your goals, preferences, and budget. If you’re looking for a “gym” or “personal trainer near me” and torn between the two, consider combining them. Many personal training businesses, including ours at Hall Personal Training, offer small group personal training options that blend the affordability aspect with the guidance of a trainer. Members typically book 1-3 sessions per week, enjoy access to the gym, and receive a monthly Fuel, Fitness & Health Check-In, focusing on nutrition, training, and on-going progress and support.
Final Thoughts
Why not explore Hall Personal Training? We’re known for our tailored approach to fitness, blending expert guidance with a supportive community to help you live a stronger, healthier, and happier life and achieve lasting results - it’s what we enjoy!
Feel free to get in touch for an initial chat and see how we can help you on your fitness journey – I promise it will be one of the best decisions you’ll make.