I was able to jump on calls with some Whitehouse Station members for presale recently.
A common theme was “I know I need to start strength training and I’m having trouble sticking with anything.”
I can’t help but think of all of the people going through the same frustrating experience.
They tried working out at home.
Classes at the local gym.
Or bought a $10-$20 per month membership at the local low cost franchise gym.
What they realized is that most gyms aren’t built for them.
A cheap gym membership: you pay a monthly fee to use the equipment.
That works if you already know what to do. If you know the exercises. If you can push yourself alone, and you’ll show up without an appointment setting.
Unfortunately, most people are nervous about showing up at a gym. They fear not being in good enough shape to be there. Or that someone will watch what they are doing and make fun of them with their friends.
They need someone to show them the ropes and be in their corner.
They need someone to make the decisions for them, so working out feels less overwhelming and more effective.
Group classes at the local gym have the same gap. One generic workout for everyone.
And a class isn’t strength training just because you’re holding dumbbells or because the name of the class says it.
One-on-one training can be great, with the right trainer. But it’s expensive. Most people won’t pay $100-$150 dollars for a single workout.
Here’s the other thing. People tend to do what they like, not what they need.
Someone who needs to lift weights but loves spin will keep doing spin.
A woman who’d gain so much from strength training will often pick a gentle yoga class instead.
A man who’s lifted his whole life and could use some cardio will avoid it.
We all lean toward the thing we already enjoy.
So who has this place helped the most?
The people who never thought they could do this. Who didn’t know where to start. Who tried once and found it overwhelming and walked away.
Over time, my goal is to have more of these people give us a shot. They feel what real strength and cardio can do, in the right amount. And they see we’re nothing like the gym they were picturing.
I think we’re a great option for the exact people who think we’re not a great option.
James