Few men actually believe this, but you don’t need barbells, dumbbells, or machines to build muscle. In fact, weight training equipment often inhibits the process.  That’s because it requires you to go to a specific location at a specific time, which might explain why some men considers themselves more like robots than body-builders.  

Take an exercise like running.  Running is the most accessible form of working out– anywhere you go, there’s your gym right there. That’s for your lower body. But learn a little bit about physics and isometric principles and you can do the same for just about every major muscle group elsewhere in the body too.

Consider the pull up-- the standard by which all body-weight exercises are measured. As even the most hard-core lifters will agree, there’s no better muscle builder for the upper body-- with or without weights. The reason for its effectiveness?  It takes full advantage of the scientific laws of motion and leverage, placing your body in a position that forces your back and arms to lift your entire body weight.  

If all body weight exercises were as challenging as the pull up, you’d be able to build muscle, anytime.  The laws of physics make it possible for you to develop your body without machines. But if you absolutely must be automated and have room for your routine at home— there are plenty of muscle machines for you, and many of them are reasonably priced.

Stationary bikes, rowing machines, rebounders or trampolines won’t break the bank and are now being manufactured for home use. If your time is precious and you don’t want to spend it going to and from health clubs two or three times a week, this is the way to go. Just pop out of bed and fall right into your very own home gym. No muss, no fuss and no body to bother you. Develop what you want, when you want, as often as you want.

Of course, if you’re looking to develop other areas of your life—and you can handle the monthly membership price, then health clubs may be your answer.

Health clubs, gyms and spas have all the bells and whistles. First of all, there’s your trainer. He watches over you to be sure you’re doing things right, or his way. He also makes sure you sweat enough and maybe even bleed a little. Once you get the hang of it, you then trade in your trainer for a spotter. He’s supposed to keep heavy barbells from dropping down on your neck. If you survive the help from the trainers and spotters, there’s lots more ahead for you!

In addition to having every conceivable type of machine in the workout rooms, there are usually many more amenities that you won’t find at home. Your typical clubhouse has lap pools, saunas, whirlpools, hot tubs, rooftop solariums, massage parlors, juice bars, snack bars— some even have cocktail bars and happy hours. After all, for the singles crowd, the health club scene just wouldn’t be complete without a little healthy socializing.

by Bruce Heath, DnC
Your Health and Medical Consultant