I have been putting off getting a gym membership because they all seem expensive. At school it was great, the gym was only 5 minutes away and “free” with the cost of my tuition. But now that I have graduated, I’m not sure where to start looking or what to do!
I live in a tiny town in Massachusetts that doesn’t even have street lights, so obviously the nearest gym is about 20 minutes away. This puts another cost onto my trip to the gym…GAS! I’m so reluctant to put money into a gym membership when the gas to go to and from the gym is just as expensive.
So I started looking into other things I am able to do that can fit into my budget.
Crunches, Jumping Jacks, and Push-Ups – Okay, so this doesn’t seem like much, but they really do work out your body. Although they seem like a minimal workout, doing these each day doesn’t cost you a thing and also helps you to stay fit. TJMaxx and Marshalls sell many workout products on the cheap that can supplement your workout. I am often tempted to buy them, but have told myself that I need to get myself into a routine first and then add the products. These products include things like ankle weights, those blow up balls that help with your crunches, and small hand weights. Also, if you are into yoga, sometimes you can find those products (yoga mats, videos, etc.) at these locations as well.
Running/Walking Outside – Again, this costs you nothing! However, I can see when this isn’t always the easiest thing to do. On those hot summer days/nights it is hard to motivate yourself to run outside (and obviously, this becomes a bit more difficult in the winter if you live somewhere where it snows). Walking is one of the best exercises for your body and so easy to do! If you like to hike you could even do this on the weekends for some great outdoor activity/exercise for your body.
Eat Out Less – Making your own food helps! Not only are you not spending that extra money (plus a tip) on food, you are making sure that you are cooking the things the way you like it. There has been so many times this summer where I have gone out to eat and not been satisfied by what I ordered. At home my meals usually consist of all vegetables and some meat. This is much better for me and I try to make a sandwich for lunch instead of stopping somewhere for fast food.
Use Work Benefits – According to an article on MainStreet.com by Lyneka Little, 46% of employers offer or plan to offer financial incentives to promote health. Many companies are also including a gym at the workplace that you can use for free (or at a discounted price). Take advantage of these benefits! Even joining a softball team that your company may have going is great exercise and gets you out of the office with your peers to do something fun!
Gym Membership – If you still feel like you need to get a gym membership to motivate you to actually work out (which many people do), do your research before signing up! Some gyms are overly expensive for what they offer you. Figure out what each of the gyms near you offers and find which one is the best for you. Don’t skip the research just to find out you could have saved over $100!
I know it seems easy to let go of your fitness when the economy is tough, but you will regret it in the long-run. Just make sure to do something each day (even if it is going for a quick walk outside on your lunch break). Too often people are caught behind their desks all day at work…break the habit and take advantage of any free time you may find to stay healthy and fit (hopefully for free)!
Photo: jzlomek
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