We're all looking for ways to maintain our motivation in our fitness routine. One fundamental question is, are supervised exercise programs better than exercising at home?

Of course there are pro's and con's for each site. The American College of Sports Medicine lists the following advantages and disadvantages for each.

Supervised group exercise programs:

• Reinforce education about lifestyle changes
• Offer variety and recreational opportunities
• Provide staff reassurance
• May enhance adherence
• Enable safety monitoring
• Cost more
• Involve transport to/from the facility

Medically directed home exercise programs:

• Cost less
• Are totally accessible
• Are more convenient
• Promote independence
• Encourage self-responsibility

Both work, as long as you follow your regimen. For people with stable heart conditions, home-based exercise rehabilitation and supervised group programs have shown comparable safety and efficacy.