Identity is Key

[hage]

It's an interesting theory. On the face of it, going to the gym is a 'good thing.' However, that's when you consider the argument in a vacuum when your only choices are 'go to the gym' and 'don't go to the gym.' When you add other options to the mix, such as going for a walk or a run, the gym starts to be a less good option. It costs money. Other people leave their sweat and germs on the machines for you to pick up. You may well drive to the gym and maybe even pay for parking. Etc. Given all the choices, most people would not be better off going to the gym. They'd be much better off saving their money, eating better and walking more. Add the option of doing some heavy gardening or DIY and suddenly you not only get fit but also get a reward from the labour. Now the opportunity cost in time use makes going to the gym even more expensive!

All good points and understood. Of course the gym does have one other massive plus and that is all the women, especially in the yoga classes apparently. Not that I leer () but I have happened to inconspiculously catch their reflections in one of the thousand mirrors.