What is the best place to lift weights? This is a question of preference, of course, but I’m sure some of you have lifted in horrendous conditions and in great conditions. What was better or not so good, in your opinion?
I’ve worked as a trainer at L.A. Fitness, Equinox, and Town Sports International and I can tell you there’s a big difference in terms of feel and comfortability when it comes to where you choose to work out.
I know for a fact that a little mom and pop gym where I first started working out turned out to be way better than some of the other places I’ve worked out at and the difference comes down to the feel of the equipment, the tone of the the gym itself, as well as the comfort you feel when you’re there.
The absolute worst gym I’ve ever attempted to work out at was a YMCA (I won’t mention where) that was so cramped and devoid of good equipment that I just walked out and skipped the workout for the day. It was that bad.
It could be a matter of the gym community itself who also goes there too. If you’re used to seeing certain people there who make you feel at home, then that’s clearly a factor.
But, in my opinion, it comes down to cost, proximity to your home, and whether going to the gym is a social activity for you or not. For me, working out is a solo activity, done best with few or little distractions.
Share your thoughts in the comments section below. What gyms have you found to offer you the best in terms of muscle growth potential and can you put your finger on what it was that made that particular gym a great place to lift weights?
Your training partner,
