From expensive wearable technology to pricey gym memberships, staying in shape seems to always come at a cost. But you can get fit this year without paying a pretty penny. These simple strategies can work any time of the year and take very little effort on your part. Pay up with your sweat equity and you’ll be on your way to a better you!
Quit Buying Fitness DVDs
My mom had Sweatin’ to the Oldies. I bought the 30 Day Shred. But the good news for all of us is that you don’t need to fork over cash to purchase fitness DVDs to work at home any more. There are FREE options available on YouTube and video streaming services like Amazon Prime Video. My favorites includes:
- Fitness Blender: An amazing website, YouTube Channel, and even app that allows you to customize workouts based on your skill level, equipment, and time limitations. A husband and wife duo coach you through hundreds of videos.
- Blogilates: Another great option on YouTube. I love how she has 3, 5, and 6 minute workouts. Your “I have no time” excuses go out the window!
- Tara Stiles Yoga: You’ll find yoga for every level to train body, mind, and spirit. Plus you’ll find some healthy cooking videos, too!
- Amazon Prime Video: I am convinced no one uses their Prime subscription nearly enough! There are hundreds of workouts of every variety that you can stream for free if you’re an Amazon Prime Member.
Flex Your Social Media Muscle
One person’s trash is another person’s treasure. Or put another way, one family’s treadmill is another family’s clothes rack. Before you head to store and buy a pricey piece of equipment, see if someone you know is looking to unload one on the cheap or better yet FREE. From weights to fitness programs like P90X, you might be surprised at what your friends and family own and no longer use. I’ve scored a treadmill and an eliptical this way!
Get Appy
There are a number of FREE apps you can put on your smart phone to encourage your fitness journey. I like Fitness Blender but I also use the simple Apple health app to track activity. On top of that, you can follow social media accounts on Instagram for workout ideas (I heart Fit Circuits and have been doing the 31 Day Squat challenge).
- Couch to 5K: If you want to run and don’t know where to start, this app is the best at guiding you to becoming a 5Ker.
- Zombies Run: If you need some motivation to keep moving, this app simulates apocalypse adventures and allows you to collect points and unlock levels.
- StrongLifts 5×5: Track your sets and build strength with this free app.
- My Fitness Pal: Recipes ideas, calorie counter, exercise journal, workouts, and more!
Invest in Decent Shoes
Get ready, I’m about to tell you to spend money. You do need a decent pair of supportive shoes to work out. While you shouldn’t be paying through the nose for them, doing some research will save you plenty of pain and maybe even time in the doctor’s office. You can definitely find what you need for $50 or less. But don’t settle for just any old pair.
Find a Gym Alternative
While it may be nice, the fancy gym down the street doesn’t fit into everyone’s budget. If you’re already locked into a contract or commitment, visit your gym’s member service area to see if you can renegotiate your rate. Or if your gym is part of a franchise or chain, call the 1-800 number on your membership card to see if you can get a lower rate. If you’re not a gym member, consider your local community center or Y instead. You may even qualify for a sliding scale of fees determined by your income. Many local churches have first class facilities at a fraction of the price, too. And you don’t have to necessarily be a member of that congregation to have access to the facility.
Finally, there are actually ways to MAKE money with your fitness goals. Check out these posts for more ideas:
My book is now available: Slaying the Debt Dragon: How One Family Conquered Their Money Monster and Found an Inspired Happily Ever After. You can also check out The Debt Free Devotional
This post contains an affiliate link. That means when you get a great deal or maybe even something for free, you also help our family pay off our mortgage early. And for that, we royally thank you!
Physical exercise is very important for us. To keep us healthy and wise such kind of activities is need so more. So i think this best suggestion for us to take tools with a fix budget.