Have you ever wondered whether paying for gym membership is actually worth it? Or have you thought about having a home gym instead? This article compares the charges for gym memberships and home gym costs.
We'll begin by considering the top gyms in Malaysia and how much they charge. Subsequently, we shall establish if a home gym could save you money in the end.
Overview of Major Gym Chains in Malaysia
Anytime Fitness
Malaysia has Anytime Fitness gyms that are really popular. It’s not hard to find one near you considering they have many outlets. In addition, it operates 24 hours and as such you can exercise whenever you want. The annual registration fee is RM195 per month while for six months it is RM205 per month. This place is liked by many people because it has many machines and free weights.
Celebrity Fitness
Another popular gym is Celebrity Fitness in Malaysia, which is an already established brand name. They offer among others Zumba classes and yoga ones. Celebrity Fitness charges RM160 monthly for their basic package. If you like training then go to Celebrity Fitness.
Believe Fitness
Cost effectiveness is one of the major things that make Believe Fitness stand out among others in this region. Their normal charge to use facilities here is RM150 every month while premium subscriptions are done at RM220 per month respectively. It comes with all the necessary tools required together with personal trainers too. For individuals who do not wish to invest heavily on gyms, this place will be ideal.
Peak Fitness
Another gym worth checking out would be Peak Fitness as well. The price for a basic membership at Peak fitness is RM170 per month while a premium package stands at RM240 monthly
Chi Fitness
Chi Fitness offers diverse classes and good equipment. Basic membership costs RM160 per month, while premium subscription goes forRM230 monthly. Whether you are looking for a cardio heavy workout or something more strength based, Chi Fitness is a good bet.
Gym Membership Fees Comparison
Before diving in and purchasing a gym membership, it’s important important to know how much these gyms cost each month. Here's a table comparing how much each gym costs:
Gym Chain |
Basic Membership (Per Month) |
Anytime Fitness |
RM195 |
Celebrity Fitness |
RM160 |
Believe Fitness |
RM150 |
Peak Fitness |
RM170 |
Chi Fitness |
RM160 |
As shown by the table above, gym fees do vary. There are gyms that cost less while others charge slightly more. Many of these gyms might be within your budget but what if you decide to put up your own gym at home? Is this a better investment? Let’s find out
Benefits of Home Gym
Cost Savings Over Time
One major advantage of a home gym would be that it can save your money. Normally, you only pay once instead of recurrent gym fees every month. For instance, adjustable dumbbells go for RM2388 whereas buying just one folding bench costs RM500 only. This is no doubt costly at first, but think about how much you would save in five or ten years when you’re still using the same gym equipment.
Convenience and Flexibility
With a home gym, one can exercise whenever they want. You do not need to go anywhere or wait for an equipment to be free for use at the fitness centre. You have all the freedom in this world. It’s so convenient especially if you are always on a tight schedule. You even can work out straight out of bed while you’re still in your pyjamas.
Personalised and Unlimited Access
You have full access to your equipment when you own a home gym. You do not have to wait until somebody else finishes his sets. Moreover, you can individualise your exercises; concentrate upon those activities that you prefer and which serve best your needs.
Cost of Building a Home Gym
Initial Investment
Setting up a home gym requires some money upfront. Let's say you buy adjustable dumbbells for RM2388 and a foldable bench for RM500. This totals RM2888. It may seem like an exorbitant amount of money but remember that this is just a one-time price compared to say, paying RM167 every month which would cost you about RM2000 every year. And that’s without adding in fees for transportation or locker fees (if needed).
Longevity and Maintenance
Home gym equipment these are more durable than ever before. Personally, you can maintain your own equipment well enough to last you for five, ten years or more. Therefore, it will not require much money for its upkeep. The better you maintain your equipment, the more savings you will have at the end of the year.
Cost Savings Comparison
Let us now compare the costs over 5 and 10 years to see how much you can save on gym memberships.
Comparison Period |
Total Gym Membership Cost |
Home Gym Cost (Dumbbells + Bench) |
Savings |
5 Years |
RM10,000 |
RM2,888 |
RM7,112 |
10 Years |
RM20,000 |
RM2,888 |
RM17,112 |
This shows that having a home gym can save you a substantial amount of money. One would have saved RM7,912 after five years; in ten years the figure rises to RM18,712.
That is more enough funds and resources that could be spent on other expenses.
Evaluating the Worth: Gym Memberships vs. Home Gym
Accessibility and Flexibility
They also have many other good amenities that include several types of machines as well as various classes, Anytime Fitness gyms being open at all times throughout the week. But with a home gym, you have even more flexibility. You can workout anytime, without leaving your house.
Personalised Training and Social Interaction
Gyms provide personal trainers who can assist you in realising your fitness goals. Such gyms are also an opportunity to meet new friends. As a result, if you enjoy socialising then this would be the best place to go. However, with a home gym, you can still follow online workouts and fitness apps for personalised training.
FAQs About Gym Memberships and Home Gyms
Are gym membership fees worth it?
That depends on what your fitness objectives are as well as the type of life that you lead. If you love group classes and need access to different equipment, then a gym may be worth it.
Can I get a good workout at home?
Surely! Having proper tools like adjustable dumbbells or benches can help you perform home workouts with ease and comfort.
How much does it cost to build a home gym?
The amount will depend on what equipment you buy. With just some basic things such as adjustable dumbbells and a bench, you could spend about RM2888.
Is a home gym cheaper in the long run?
Yes. Although you will have to pay alot of money at the start to install your home gym, you will eventually reap the rewards because there are no monthly payments required.
Conclusion
Choosing between paying for a gym membership fee and setting up your personal home gym comes down to what you consider as being most important. A paid membership might make more sense if you value working out with lots of people and going out generally. However, if you would like to cut costs, value your convenience, have your own workout plan and prefer peace and quiet, a home gym is the perfect choice.
Do adjustable dumbbells pique your interest? The next article we will be offering will delve into the upsides of using adjustable dumbbells as well as why they are likely the best fit for any home gym. Stay tuned.