Why Being Average is Good: The Strength of the Average Gym-Goer

In a world that often glorifies extremes—whether it be in fitness, career success, or personal achievements—it's easy to overlook the value of being average. When it comes to fitness and health, being average in the gym can actually mean you're better off than the majority of the population. Let's explore why being average is something to celebrate, especially in terms of strength and cardiovascular health.

The Gym Attendance Statistics

Before diving into the benefits of being average, it's essential to understand the context. According to the International Health, Racquet & Sportsclub Association (IHRSA), only about 20% of Americans belong to a gym. Even more striking, a report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) indicates that only about 23% of adults meet the recommended guidelines for aerobic and muscle-strengthening activities. This means that if you are someone who regularly attends the gym and engages in physical activity, you are already part of an elite group.

Strength: The Average vs. the Sedentary

When considering strength, being average can put you ahead of the majority. The American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) recommends that adults engage in strength training at least twice a week. If you're meeting this guideline, you are stronger than many of your peers who do not lift weights at all. - **Average Bench Press**: The average male who engages in regular strength training can bench press approximately 135 pounds, while the average untrained male struggles with just 100 pounds. - **Average Squat**: For squats, regular gym-goers can often lift around 185 pounds, compared to the average untrained individual who may only manage 150 pounds. These statistics illustrate that being average in strength training is still significantly better than the majority of the population who do not participate in any strength training at all.

Cardio: The Average Heart Health

When it comes to cardiovascular fitness, the benefits of being average are equally compelling. The CDC states that only about 50% of adults engage in any form of aerobic exercise. If you are part of the average gym-goer who incorporates cardio into your routine, you are already ahead of half the population. - **VO2 Max**: The average VO2 max for a moderately active individual is around 35-40 ml/kg/min, while sedentary individuals often fall below 30 ml/kg/min. A higher VO2 max indicates better cardiovascular fitness and endurance. - **Running Times**: Average runners can complete a mile in about 9-10 minutes, while many sedentary individuals may struggle to run a mile at all. These figures show that being average in cardio fitness not only boosts your health but also places you in a healthier category compared to those who do not exercise.

The Mental and Emotional Benefits

Beyond physical strength and cardiovascular health, being average in the gym can have profound mental and emotional benefits. Regular exercise is linked to reduced symptoms of anxiety and depression, improved mood, and enhanced cognitive function. By simply maintaining an average fitness level, you are investing in your mental health, setting yourself apart from those who lead sedentary lifestyles.

Conclusion: Embrace Your Average

In conclusion, being average in the gym is a commendable achievement. It signifies that you are part of a small minority who prioritize health and fitness in a world where inactivity is the norm. By embracing your average status, you can appreciate the strength, cardiovascular health, and mental benefits that come with regular exercise. So the next time you feel discouraged by the extremes, remember that being average is not just good—it's better than most!