I’m a freelance writer. Trust me when I tell you I am not raking in gobs of money. But I decided to join Flow Fitness Boutique over a big, chain gym (aka treadmill farm) despite the heftier fees.

I’ve belonged to big gyms before and I would almost immediately fall into a rut. I’d use the same cardio machines (hey elliptical, do you miss me?) over and over. I almost completely ignored the weights (I’d get impatient with the sweaty guys who hung out on the benches doing more resting between reps than actual reps). I’d try a few group fitness classes but with 30 or more people crammed into the studio, it was easy to just melt into a corner and haplessly make my way through the class.

You’re a mom first, fitness enthusiast second. But wouldn’t it be great if you could be both at the same time? That’s where gyms with child care come in. They allow you to have the best of both worlds — a killer workout for you, fun and games for them. So give the jogging stroller a rest and pack up the diaper bag. 

According to a new study, absolutely nothing.

That’s great news for those of us who are busy moms, juggling kids, schedules and work. While Flow Fitness Boutique provides free child care during classes, sometimes the weekend is the only time we have to carve out an hour or two for ourselves.