Lifting is a CHEAP Hobby
Today I want to dive into a topic that I’ve seen discussed online – the idea that powerlifting or strength training is an expensive hobby. While some might argue this point, I want to take a closer look and break down the costs associated with this sport, or hobby, as some may call it.
Upfront Costs
Let's kick things off by discussing what I consider to be one-time expenses when diving into serious lifting or strength training. While these items aren't necessarily mandatory, many individuals opt to invest in them for their lifting journey. First up, we have the trusty lifting belt. A good quality belt, such as those from Pioneer, can set you back around $100. Keep in mind; this is a one-time purchase that should last you a significant portion of your lifting career. Next on the list are lifting shoes. While not everyone chooses to invest in these specialized shoes, a quality pair, like the Massenomics Ursanomics shoe, typically runs for about $130 and can last you anywhere from five to ten years with proper care. Moving on to wrist wraps and straps, which can be essential for bench pressing, overhead pressing, or heavy pulling exercises. These accessories usually cost around $30 each, offering both support and longevity in your lifting journey. So, when we tally up these one-time expenses, we're looking at roughly $300 to $350 to get yourself equipped with the basics.
Ongoing Costs
Now, let's talk about the ongoing monthly expenses that come with this hobby. First and foremost, you'll need a place to train, so let's budget around $60 per month for a gym membership. Next up, if you're serious about making progress, you might consider investing in programming or coaching. While this isn't mandatory, a subscription to a platform like Juggernaut AI, which offers personalized programming, can cost around $30 per month. Additionally, let's set aside about $60 per month for supplements, including protein powder, caffeine, and perhaps some creatine. Keep in mind; these numbers are based on moderate spending and can vary depending on individual preferences.
Adding it Up
Now, let's crunch some numbers. If we add up the initial one-time expenses and the monthly costs for a year, we're looking at roughly $1,800 for that first year of serious lifting. And for subsequent years, the cost drops to around $1,200 annually. Not too shabby, right? But wait, there's more. If you're really diving deep into this hobby and decide to compete in a powerlifting meet, you can expect to spend an additional $200 on registration fees and perhaps another $100 on a singlet, totaling around $300 for the event.
Comparing Costs
Now, let's put these costs into perspective by comparing them to other popular hobbies. Take golf, for example. A round of golf with cart rental can cost around $50 per session, totaling $200 per month if you play four times a month. And let's not forget about the cost of clubs, which can easily set you back over $1,000 for a decent set. Similarly, hunting can also be a pricey endeavor, with expenses ranging from licenses and ammunition to gear and travel costs.
And what about other hobbies like boating, fishing, classic car restoration, or gaming? The truth is, many hobbies come with their own set of expenses, some of which can far exceed the costs associated with powerlifting or strength training.
Is lifting a cheap hobby?
In conclusion, while powerlifting may require some initial investment in equipment and ongoing monthly expenses, it's not necessarily more expensive than other hobbies. Plus, the benefits of improved strength, health, and confidence far outweigh the costs for many enthusiasts. So, if you're on the fence about diving into this sport, don't let the price tag deter you. With a bit of budgeting and smart spending, you can enjoy all the benefits of powerlifting without breaking the bank.
What are your thoughts on the cost of powerlifting? Do you think it's an expensive hobby, or do you believe the benefits justify the investment? Let us know in the comments below.