Well, I didn’t get to actually work out this weekend (illness intruded in the form of a 24-hour bug), but I visited and scoped out two different gyms. One is a local place that’s highly regarded, and another is the area YMCA.
| Criterion | Local Gym | YMCA |
| Price | $138/month for two adults with $20 joining fee | $92/month for family with $115 joining fee |
| Vibe | adult-oriented, which adds to the “escape” attraction | family-oriented, which makes me feel more at home, but also provides less of an escape |
| Location | subway or bus ride | about 5 blocks closer, but still not so walkable |
| Amenities | good machines, good classes, child care, open 24 hrs, smoothie/snack bar | good machines, good classes, child care (requires reservations?), pool (!) |
| Other Pts of Comparison | not as crowded; friends belong there; one location only | crowded; one location only; kind of chaotic |
I’m actually leaning toward the YMCA, in part because they have other programs that the family could participate in. But the big question remains: should we join at all?
After all, once the nicer weather comes, I could step out the door and go for a walk, or go to the park. (But there’s no child care so that’s dependent on hubby. Or I’d have to bring them along in the jog-stroller or something.) I could also step in front of the TV and do a killer DVD workout. (But there’s no child care.) Would I actually put the kid(s) in a stroller or whatever and haul them on the subway/bus to get to the gym on a regular basis? Would I feel comfortable leaving them to focus on myself? Do we have the money? How important is this? Hmm…
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Why not wait on the gym to see what you can get accomplished without it. Showing your children that you take care of your body makes them want to take care of theirs. If you hold out long enough, then the YMCA may have one of those sales where they waive the application fee.
Comment by Cheryl 04.03.08 @ 5:54 am