For the first time in my life I've actually joined a gym.

Having been a cynic of these places in the past and choosing to play sport in order to keep myself fit instead was more than a little nervous about sharing the place with young 20 somethings... Even though I'm only in my mid 40s.

I have to say I was pleasantly surprised with the ranges of age groups actually in there using all the equipment, from 20 up to 70... Both male and female.

They definitely seems to be a change in people's attitude towards gyms and I definitely see it as a tool that the NHS can use in order to alleviate the pressures on the system moving forward over the next decade or so.

How long before gym membership usurps bus passes for when you hit 60 in order to keep us fit and healthier for longer?

Anyone else on here regular gym users?

The Voice of Reason In An Otherwise Mediocre World

Not heard of the 'Spa' in Beckenham.
My daughter and her husband are members of 'David Lloyd' over there and love it.

Many moons ago I used to be regular at a gym where we previously lived before moving to the south coast 3 years ago, often going there 5 days a week but alas strenuous work commitments meant that activity ceased.

My wife is urging me to join 'David Lloyd' in my 'neck of the woods' or an alternative and I am giving it serious consideration.Not only does one benefit physically, there is the social aspect of meeting new people etc etc.

Badger

Thank you for that.

My daughter has told me about going to some exercise classes at a place near Clock House station so maybe this was the 'Spa'.

Just to chime in..
Has anyone found it beneficial in easing anxiety and depression?

When I was a young girl my Mother said to me.. You listen here kid you're CPFC

Definitely I had some physical ailments which in turn made me depressed. I was sleeping 18 hours a day. In the end I threw away all the drugs and forced myself down the gym. Within a week I felt better and more positive about my life.

Yoga has been an absolute godsend I started it because of my back problems but I have found that mindfulness has made me a calmer and happier person which is why I gave up alcohol. Also meditation and breathing exercises work I do them quietly anywhere I feel stressed.

One example. If I am in a queue and the person at the till is taking their time I used to get wound up. Now I silently say to myself Judging Judging Judging. This reminds me that I am not the "till police" and I should not stress myself. It works.

Good luck to all of you.

One more point

I've been wanting to join a gym for ages and friends have been telling me to as no one cares what others are doing, my fear was everyone watching me. Well I decided against the gym idea, for now, and went to an aqua aerobics class on Monday. I was so scared as have not warn a swimsuit in about 10 years. I had absolutely nothing to worry about. It really was fun and the people lovely. The instructor was like a female Hitler however she did motivate us and made us enjoy it at the same time.

There is a point here lol, I get anxiety and depression however walking out of that class I walked with my head high and a big smile on my face. I was thinking about going tonight but still a little sore from Monday so will defo go again on Monday.