Benefits of Joining a Gym

It’s hard to believe that we’re already heading into the month of March! Spring is definitely on the horizon, which means that summer won’t be far behind. A lot of people start the year off with the resolution to get fit and lose weight before summer starts and, as a result, they join the local gym. While getting in shape and losing weight may be one of the main goals for joining a gym, there are a lot of other benefits to be gained, especially for moms.

• New Friendships – It can be hard for moms to make new friends because we just don’t have the same opportunities as women without kids in regards to getting out and meeting new people. Why? We always have our kids in tow and most of us focus on getting our errands done and heading back to the house when we’ve got the kids. However, most gyms offer childcare and that allows moms to go and workout alone, giving us the ability to strike up a conversation with someone who is also working out. Believe it or not, there are a lot of new friendships that are formed at the gym.
  For moms, making new friends at the gym keeps them motivated to keep coming back. Whether it’s just to do a little cardio with another mom or you’re taking a class with other women, there really is power in numbers – especially at the gym!
• Stress Relief – I’m not sure why, but a lot of people think that being a mom is easy. Nothing could be further from the truth. Being a mom is incredibly stressful, especially when the kids are in school and start to deal with all kinds of outside issues. Going to the gym on a regular basis is a great way to release some of this stress. It doesn’t matter how stressed I am before I work out, when I’m done I always feel better and not quite as bogged down with life like I was before I walked through the doors. 
• Alone Time – For some mothers, the only time they are able to get to themselves is when they’re at the gym. There are a lot of people that can’t afford to pay a sitter so they can go to the grocery store alone or to go shopping, so they have to take the kids everywhere. Therefore, when the gym offers complimentary child care (included in your monthly rate), these women take advantage of it. Let’s face it – every mom needs time to herself. When you get it at the gym, not only are you able to enjoy being alone, but you’re also doing something that’s good for you too!
• Setting a Healthy Example – Moms who go to the gym on a regular basis are setting a very healthy example for their kids. Kids are able to see that mom feels better after she works out and this naturally piques their interest. In addition, many gyms offer programs and classes for kids too. If your gym offers this, then sign your kids up and schedule your workouts around those programs so your kids can experience the benefits of exercise.