Training can be done anywhere, this seems like the easiest answer but it is completely true however there are some tailored environments for certain individuals. Today I will list several examples and who it would benefit.
Commercial Gym
The staple for most fitness enthusiasts, blending a mixture of resistance, free weight, cardiovascular, class and health/spa.
Who would benefit?
Everyone - as stated above it has everything most people would need to start and maintain a fitness regime.
Considerations
. Dumbbells usually limited to around 50kg so if you are a powerhouse of strength, specialist strength gyms may be your go to.
. If you are new to a gym - reach out to staff to give you a tour and join classes, they will have lots of similar minded people to befriend.
Home
Privacy and convenience all in one
Who would benefit?
New starters - without gym equipment you can start bodyweight exercises, light cardio and stretching at home. Fantastic to start with but difficult to progress from bodyweight without buying additional equipment.
Considerations
. To buy additional equipment is a pricy venture, the standard price for plates is £1/kg so you may be looking at around £50 for a bar and 30kg of plates. You will ultimately out-grow these and require constant additions, it may be worth getting a gym membership.
. Bands, kettlebells and dumbbells can add intensity to your workout, if you are happy to maintain current fitness levels - this will be more than sufficient for your needs.
Outdoors
Fresh air and nature, can't get much better than that!
Who would benefit?
Fat loss and fitness individuals - cardiovascular training is tailored for the outdoors, going out for a walk or run is a great way to increase the heart rate.
Considerations
. Very similar to home, you can increase your heart rate but doing resistance training will be difficult in this environment.
. Again great for cardiovascular training plus the benefits of increased vitamin D from the sun, going outdoors is always a better option than driving to a gym to then walk on a treadmill.
Classes
Meet new people, train with a fitness professional and grow your confidence
Would would benefit?
New starters - meeting new people and getting expert assistance is a great starting point to your new fitness journey
Bored people - fitness may seem tedious for some people and probably quite lonely. If you would like to mix up your training, try something new or include a social element classes will work a treat.
Considerations
. Not all instructors are equal - when you hear the phrase "Oh that instructor is amazing" there is usually some truth to it. Read reviews, speak to people and read descriptions - it will improve your experience.
. Don't feel the need to keep up with the fittest and don't starve yourself - I have taught 100's of hours of classes and I would be a rich man if I had a pound for every time someone got lightheaded, sick or got too sore. Look after yourself and pace yourself.
Examples:
. Aerobics - improves stamina and coordination
. Circuit training - strength & cardio stations with time spent on each station
. HIIT/fat burns - interval based training (see more in 1.1 blog)
. Kettlebell - high repetition kettlebell work focused on full body training
. Yoga - full body stretch and coordination with a focus on breathing techniques
. Bootcamps - similar to circuit training but usually working in a group or couples
. Tone - high repetition work, usually full body
. Abs - shorter classes based solely on torso exercises
Clubs and sports
Perfect way to learn a new skill, meet new people, become part of community and get fitter & stronger
Who would benefit?
Anyone - improving coordination is often difficult in a gym environment unless you aim specifically for that development. Playing hand to eye, physical or coordinated sports develop the bodies ability to perform specific tasks in a efficient manner.
Lonely individuals - team sports allow you to meet up with new people and be part of a group.
Confused about fitness - a lot of sports have strict rules and required movements, this will provide structure to your training which will benefit your progression.
Considerations
. Financial investments - most sports and clubs require financially contribution so be wary that you may have to pay to be part.
. Equipment costs - racket sports, golf and team sports usually require you to have the relevant equipment or team colours.
. Doesn't have to be a sport - there are a lot of running & walking clubs out there, it doesn't always have to be a sport. Do some research and try out something new, most places do trial sessions.
Summary
There are 5 common places and ways to train - some of which are guided and some which are not.
Commercial Gym - Unguided most of the time
Home - Unguided unless following program or DVD
Outdoor - Unguided unless part of a bootcamp class
Classes - Guided throughout however individual attention is limited as it is a group setting
Club or sport - Guided throughout with set rules to help understanding.
Be your best!