The past five years have been revolutionized when it comes to in-home workout programs. The rise of Netflix and Hulu have spilled over into the workout industry, and in-home video streaming has taken it on by storm.

If I had to predict, at this rate, I’d think the typical gyms that existed when I was in high school will become the new Blockbuster Video — a nice concept at the time, but taken over by the digital revolution. Brick and mortar gyms will have to rethink their entire business model to stay relevant and afloat in the years to come.

 

The Digital Revolution

With everything going digital, it was only a matter of time until it would hit the fitness industry. While it could be argued that the digital fitness industry is still in its infancy, there are so many programs to choose from.

From Kayla Itsines and Beachbody, to the Daily Burn and POPSUGAR, getting in a good workout at home has become easier than ever before.

While there are still some good arguments for a gym membership (hello, sauna and steam room), if you’re serious about creating good habits and actually making a commitment to workout consistently, at-home workouts are where it’s at. Here’s why.

 

1 At-home workouts are quicker

There’s no traveling back and forth to the gym and waiting for equipment. Having your workout “studio” in the corner of your living room makes it less of a time commitment to get in your sweat session. And often, workouts are 30 minutes or less.

 

2 There’s no excuses

Ever gone to the gym, forgot to pack socks in your bag, then said, “Well, looks like I can't work out today.” I’ve definitely had that happen to me. At-home workouts ensure that nothing is forgotten and no workout sessions are foiled because of lack of preparation.

 

3 Welcome to the no-judgement zone

When you’re at home, there’s nobody looking over your shoulder — no judgement. In the comfort of your own home, you can be your own worst critic and push yourself harder knowing that you’re the only one watching.

 

4 More flexibility to fit it into your schedule

Whether you’re an early riser or would rather knock it out after you get home from work, having your gym at home creates more flexibility for how you create your habit and make it stick.

 

5 There’s something for everyone

With so much to choose from — HIIT, yoga, cardio, pilates, weightlifting and everything in between — there’s something for everyone. Often programs are tagged based on experience and ability.

 

6 The experts show you how

Any credible at-home program will be lead by a certified personal trainer with a program that’s proven to give results. Plus, they’ll show you moves and correct form that would be hard to replicate or remember at the gym.

 

7 Programs often extend beyond workouts

A lot of at-home programs are holistic in that they’ll tell you what workouts to do and when, and supply an eating regimen to help spur along your results. I find comfort in the structure and have seen for myself that these programs really do work when implemented by the books.

 

8 They’re less than a gym membership

Most at-home workout programs cost significantly less than a gym membership. Most range from $15-$20 a month. I can’t believe that even 10 years ago I was paying upwards of $100 a month to have access to a gym.

 

9 Better results, period

With the regimented workout plans that walk you through an entire workout, it’s like having an in-home personal trainer. These programs are meant to give you all the tools you need to succeed. You just have to commit.

 

One potential pitfall

If I were to toute one drawback of in-home workouts, and something that I’ve often heard others mention when it comes to giving up their gym memberships, is that it can be hard to motivate yourself. That having that place to go and be around others keeps them accountable.

But doing a program with a friend or spouse — to help keep each other on track and accountable — can be one way to get yourself motivated. And once you start, it will be hard to not show up.

 

I’ve seen the proof

I have gotten into the best shape of my life doing a six-week in-home workout program. Yes, six weeks. I’d spent YEARS in gyms trying to get the same results. If you can’t already tell, I’m a true believer.

If you were to try it out and commit to a program that works for you, I’d bet that you’d be blown away with your results. It’s just shifting your mindset from the gym into the new digital age.