Getting fit without breaking the bank

One of the most common resolutions in January is promising to better your diet and to exercise more. At first glances, going on a health buzz can look like very pricey business between gym memberships and extravagant shopping lists including all of the latest ‘superfoods’. At the end of the day, your health is your wealth and if you’re going to spend money on something, your wellbeing is a good place to start.

Saying that, you don’t have to break the bank and there are always ways to be smart with how you spend your money. It is important to think of getting healthy as a lifestyle choice as opposed to a ‘health kick’ or quick fix. It’s the only way that it is going to work for you in terms of getting results from a health perspective and staying savvy with your money.

It is a well known fact that the components of a healthy lifestyle is the marriage of a balanced diet and regular exercise. In this post, we’re looking at how to build exercise into your lifestyle in a way that is both effective and affordable.

Get outside!

Getting outdoors, be it walking, jogging, cycling, running or hiking is brilliant not only for your physical health but for your mental wellbeing too. Getting some fresh air can help clear and relax the mind which is very important as we all live busy and sometimes stressful lives. There are no hidden taxes or charges for exercising outside so it is a great to get fit at your own pace with lots of options to choose from depending on your interests. If you’re interested in walking, jogging or running, you should check out your local parkrun. Parkrun is an organisation that organise weekly timed runs in parks all over the world and in their own words are open “to all from juniors and first-timers to Olympians and octogenarians”. There is a great social aspect to the runs too and it a really nice way to meet likeminded people.

Split personal training sessions with a buddy

Personal Training can be hugely effective in terms of reaching weight loss and fitness goals because you are provided with a dedicated person who customises both a fitness and exercise plan. This approach, while effective comes with a substantial price tag. A lot of personal trainers will split the cost of the sessions if you train with a buddy so go down to your local gym or shop around to see if these programs are on offer. Training with a friend can be great in terms of motivating one another and you also would have someone who can empathise with you when you’re in bits after your training sessions!

Swap your credit card for a library card

Your local library may be somewhat neglected these days but going in for a gander could reap some pleasant surprises. Libraries are often well stocked with a wide selection of workout DVDs available for members to rent. This could be a great idea as you could take note of the training circuits in the DVDs and then work out in your own time in your own home. Granted that you return your copy to the library in the appropriate time, you’re looking at the latest celebrity workout for free!

Check out YouTube

YouTube is full of fitness fanatics that are broadcasting their knowledge and expertise which is good news for all of us looking to tone up because it’s free and available as long as you have an internet connection and either a computer or smartphone. Of course it is really important to make sure that you are doing the exercise that is right for you so if you are taking on a new fitness regime, it is advised that you speak to your GP to insure what is safe and advisable for you. Check out our Have Fun Get Fit content for ideas.

Join a local club or sports team

Joining a local sports team, dance class or club is not only a great way to gain and maintain fitness, it is also a great social activity. Whatever your budget, there is an option for everybody-be that rounding up a few buddies for a game of five-a-side or checking out a salsa class in the local community hall, you’ll be sure to find something that suits your lifestyle and interests. It could also be a good way to fulfil other resolutions you may have such as picking up a new hobby.

Hopefully there are some helpful tips and tricks here to stay fit and price savvy all at the same time. Remember that investing in your fitness is investing in yourself and your future and the importance of regular exercise cannot be undermined. Best of luck with your fitness endeavors and for more money saving tips, keep an eye on our blog!