7 Reasons to Join a Gym ...

At the gym, someone is always watching. This may seem intimidating at first, but in the end it will help you. When you know you are being watched, you're bound to work harder and stick with your workout until the end to save yourself embarrassment. Because of this, fellow gym members are one of the reasons to join a gym.

If you attend a gym regularly, it's inevitable that you will end up making some good friends. But like you, these friends will be striving to become more fit. That means that while your non-gym attending friends relentlessly invite you out to indulge in unhealthy binge-eating activities, your fit friends will be there to motivate you to stick to your fitness and meal plans. The more positive influences you have in your life, the better!

Most gyms offer a variety of group fitness classes taught by a trained instructor. These classes are bound to take your workout experience to the next level! Since they are full of your fit friends as well as strangers, you'll feel pressured to stay engaged and do your best throughout the workout. Likewise, your instructor will critique and correct your form, which you wouldn't be able to do very well on your own.

This one is pretty obvious, but still worth noting. Gyms are known for their state-of-the-art equipment. Stationary bikes, ellipticals, treadmills and more await you at your local gym! Gym equipment is especially beneficial for people who have experienced injuries in the past, because you can adjust the machines to your body and fitness capabilities.

Going to the gym requires you to get out of the house. Once you're outside, you will automatically go into a "might as well" mentality. Since you're at the gym, with classes and equipment all around, you might as well work out, and you might as well stay for at least an hour. At home, you can work out, too, but there isn't the same sort of guarantee that you will as when at a gym.

Another motivating factor is the extra bill you must pay to the gym each month. When you pay for something, you want to get your money's worth! And with a gym membership, the more frequently you come to the gym, the closer you get to getting your money's worth! No one likes to see money drain from their bank account, unless they can reap the rewards eventually.

Along with classes, many gyms also have personal trainers available. Working with a trainer can help personalize your workout experience and make your time at the gym most efficient for your body. Trainers will put the pressure on and push your body to limits you might shy away from when exercising alone.

To some, joining a gym isn't at all a priority, and if you're extremely self-motivated and already work out on your own then it shouldn't be. Do you think joining a gym would be a smart move for you?