One of the best parts of my job is working with people from all walks of life. I have to admit, prior to being a trainer on The Biggest Loser, I rarely worked with people outside of the gym. Most of the people I worked with were in shape looking to get in REALLY good shape and I was always in the gym. Needless to say, as a trainer on The Biggest Loser, I not only found a new passion for helping people that were very out of shape but I also discovered how many people have a fear of the gym. I spent a lot of time training people outside, at home, on the beach, and at parks. While I absolutely love to train outside, and love the results of using the environment as your gym, there are some major benefits to training in a gym.

1. Undivided attention: Working out at home can be great, but lets face it, you are surrounded by a world full of distractions. Kids, phone calls, spouses, room mates, etc. At the gym, you are less likely to be distracted. 
2. Variety: I like to think of a gym as a giant toy box.  Everything from big pieces of equipment, cardio machines, free weights, classes, and the list goes on and on. If you truly use the gym, the options are endless.
3. Educational: A gym can be a great place to learn new exercises. Even as a trainer sometimes I'll jump on the cardio machines and watch the other trainers work with clients. It's a great way to get ideas and learn new combos and techniques. I also recommend asking trainers that are between clients to show you and exercise for something you are trying to improve. A good trainer will be happy to help.
4. Create a new social circle: I'm not a big fan of chit chat at the gym, however it is a great place to meet like minded people. If you are single it's a great place to meet a potential date. The key is to say, "I'd love to chat, but I don't have much time to workout today. Lets exchange numbers and catch up for coffee." Whether its a date or a new friend this works great! 
5. Sense of accomplishment: There is something very rewarding about saying "I went to the gym today." Putting it in the calendar and getting it done is a great feeling. 

Any workout is a good workout, but I really want to encourage you to hit the gym along with your home and outdoor workouts. I switched gyms this year and I love my new gym. I really needed a change and although it was a bit scary leaving a gym I'd been working out at forever, I needed change. My workouts are totally re charged just from a simple change. I usually mix it up and work out at the gym 3-4 times a week and workout at home, at the beach, or do stairs the other days. 

Where do you get the best workout? 

This is a pic from my last video shoot at the UFC gym (I have yet to go in the octagon, but I'm thinking it might be fun to drag my husband Gunter in there for a little showdown!