Fitness on a Budget
If channeling Kris Kringle the last month or so has left your bank account a little more on the sparser side, the last thing you may be thinking of is putting out more dough for fitness related expenses. Unfortunately when it comes to budgets, gym memberships, fitness gear and the like generally are not a priority BUT, let me ask this: where on this prioritizing scale does your overall health fall? I’m not suggesting spending a fortune on memberships at the latest boutique spa where everything comes a la carte but it’s possible to maintain your fitness regime without breaking your budget or your bank.
Lucky for you this is the PRIME time of year to invest in a gym membership – there are a plethora of good deals now. The reason is all the multitude of well-intentioned “resolutionists” hoping to kick start yet another new year on the road to weight loss, sculpted muscles and, oh yeah, that health thing too. If you can endure longer than the fast –fizzling enthusiasm of the masses, within a month or so, you’ll have the gym equipment of your choosing, and classes will thin out too. Another tip: don’t always accept what’s offered, chances are if you insist on “bargaining” or speaking with the manager etc, you MAY be able to negotiate a sweeter deal or at least get some free bonuses like towel service or access to special classes – it’s worth a shot. Another tip: Joining with a spouse or friend(s) is cheaper and buying packages is cheaper than paying per day/class.
Your company or health insurance may pay for your gym membership or be affiliated with a gym that will offer you very low rates. Check with your health insurance – coverage is slowly becoming more progressive, some starting to recognize the benefits of maintaining a healthy lifestyle now so as to prevent high medical costs later on in life. Your health insurance may cover your gym membership.
Similarly, the same goes with hiring a personal trainer. Many at gyms or privately will offer New Year deals. You can be guaranteed less expensive rates if you do partner or small group training. This works best if you and your partner have similar fitness levels and goals but this is not necessary.
If fitness institutions are not for you, consider investing in key equipment such as a bike, swimming gear, or in-home treadmill or elliptical. Refer to my earlier article on creating an Building a Home Gym on a Budget.
Look at all the variety of exercises provided under Move of the Week – everything from cardio; legs; back; chest; core and more. Compile your own workouts by mixing and matching them or just randomly “draw” an exercise and do the suggested reps or time, then move on – keep going until you’ve exercised for 30-60 minutes – repeat the exercises (or try the modifications) to mix it up even more.
Other inexpensive options are to tune in and record workouts from fitness channels on your TV, borrow workout DVDs from your local library, join a local walking or running group (they’re free) or start your own group, or just get outdoors – go for a walk, run, bike or hike, just get out and move.
Sometimes you have to consider your health and fitness as a personal investment –your alternative is a lifetime of healthcare costs, medical bills and expensive pharmaceuticals.
