Being a member of a private sports club might seem fancy, but paying $180 a month is actually less than what some folks drop on coffee and snacks. No hefty initiation fee, either.
For me, the sports club’s worth every penny. Here’s why:
1) More joy and better health
Last Sunday, I played indoor pickleball straight from 8 am to 9:30 am, rain or shine. No waiting for courts, no weather hassle. My friend and I kept at it till 10 am, when we paired up with another couple for a friendly match.
Playing sports (without injuries!) fills me with happiness every time. Endorphins kick in, and meeting new folks—about 25 since I joined—adds to the fun. It’s a big mood booster, especially after months of cabin fever from the rain before I signed up last February.
Paying to play pickleball indoors during a storm? Totally worth it. I’d gladly shell out $500 a month just for winter access!
Regular exercise keeps my heart happy and helps me avoid gaining weight. It’s been a game-changer for my early retirement plans, especially dealing with chronic pain like TMJ and sciatica.
2) More quality time with the kids
Post-pickleball, I whipped up brunch at 10:18 am and then chauffeured the kids 20 miles south to Redwood Shores. Our club network gives us access to three spots along the San Francisco peninsula.
For 1 hour 45 minutes, we swam and I coached them. Between 25-30 minute pool stints, we relaxed in the outdoor hot tub for a bit. Teaching them to swim myself saved about $2,800, compared to hiring help.
It’s tiring but incredibly rewarding. The bond from spending so much time teaching them something new is priceless. As they grow, I look forward to more club trips for basketball, tennis, and family workouts.
3) More relief for my wife
Post-swim, I got the kids cleaned up and treated them to Five Guys Burgers. This outing gave my wife almost four hours of downtime.
Hiring help for four hours could cost up to $120, but this routine only costs $87.50, less than the $180 club fee. Plus, I hit the indoor club once more each week, which keeps me happy and healthy.
4) More networking and social ties
In my finance days, the private club was a hub for business connections. Tennis matches with clients or golf rounds at a colleague’s club were common. Stronger relationships form naturally over shared interests. Think of all the bonds formed outside work—school friends, charity work, or even recommending schools or jobs.
Even after leaving finance, I’ve built a circle of friends at the club who pitch in when needed. They’ve written school recommendations, made business intros, and supported various events.
5) Better habits for my kids
Healthy habits start young. Making gym visits or club trips a regular thing helps kids grow up fit and surrounded by health-conscious peers. Regular exercise, good eating, and staying active might mean longer, happier lives.
It’s my top hobby, balancing mental and physical well-being for an overall better life. If my kids have kids, I hope they carry on this ethos.
Why I won’t drop my sports club membership
For my mental and physical health, regular access to sports and fitness is non-negotiable. It’s like an insurance policy for staying happy and healthy. Exercise is my go-to mood booster, right alongside long walks in nature.
And getting court time in San Francisco? A hassle. Public tennis courts are always booked, even the pickleball spots I still visit. Time’s precious—so paying for a club membership to save time feels like the best deal ever.
Of all my monthly costs, this membership’s the most bang for the buck. So, no plans to cut it anytime soon. Instead, I’m finding other ways to save over $1,000 monthly.
