The
new year is when many people think about getting fit. For the rest of the year,
there are other occasions where weight loss is important as in just before
summer, in preparation for a wedding, or to take a cruise. Getting fit can cost
you a whole lot of money, but it doesn’t have to be that way. Here’s how to get
fit without going broke.
1.
Join a gym. Joining a gym makes sense for most people as the equipment they
need is already there and the impetus to go usually comes from one or more
friends. If you aren’t sure about a particular gym, ask management for a trial
visit. Typically, this means allowing you to use the facilities for upwards of
a week and at no cost to you. If you like the gym, then register. If not,
continue to shop around.
2.
Consider your discounts. Does your employer encourage employees to work out? If
so, you may find that you’re eligible for a sizable gym discount, merely by
flashing your employee card. Contact your Human Resources department to find
out if a discount plan is in the offing and at which gyms, advises Fitness 19.
3. Do
without a personal trainer. Serious exercise mavens insist on using a personal
trainer to help them achieve their goals. Costing a small mint each time you
use one, having a personal trainer may no longer be necessary if you have
already reached your goals. Sure, parting can be bittersweet, but if your
budget cannot accommodate a trainer, than go with the savings and bid him or
her adieu.
4.
Ride your bicycle. Investing in a bicycle will set you back by about $300 plus
$50 or more for a helmut. Ride your bicycle to work, take it to the store, or
use it simply for exercising. It is one of the more cost effective ways to
exercise and one that builds cardiovascular strength too.
5.
Fundraise for your health. Another way to enjoy a fun workout is to participate
in a race, a triathlon or other event with the goal to assist a nonprofit
organization. You’ll pay a fee for registering, but that cost is often
partially offset by the funds you raise. Ask your friends to support your
efforts, by contributing funds to fight cancer, feed the hungry, help poor
children, provide storm relief, and so forth. Tie these events in with your
exercise regimen and you’ll enjoy the benefits of both.
6.
Shop for clothes. You’ll need the right foot wear, shirts, pants, socks, bands,
gloves and other gear when working out. Chances are you have at least some
apparel useful for working out, so start there. Then, when you need to add or
expand your collection, be prepared to shop hard for the bargains. Start with
stores such as Target, WalMart, and Kohls, to find deals. Merchants such as Old
Navy, Ross, Marshalls, and TJ Maxx shouldn’t be overlooked. Shop the
sporting goods stores when they’re running specials and always check Amazon to
find the latest deals.
7.
Visit consignment shops. Some people simply cannot bear to consider consignment shops, purveyors of (mostly) gently used
clothes. No worries — the clothing accepted at the better shops are in
excellent condition, clean, and fashionable. It is a hit or miss proposition at
such stores and that means frequent trips may be necessary to find exactly what
you want. The better items are about half the cost of what they were when new.
But if want to save more, then a visit to Goodwill or to the Salvation Army is
in order.
Saving Money
Of
course, the best way to save money is to not spend any. That’s not an option
for most people, but frugality can help you carefully pick what works best for
you.
