Cheap Trick Thursday, New Year's edition: cheap fitness tips
New Year's is a popular time for people to make resolutions to take better care of themselves, but is it possible to get and stay fit without spending a ton of money?
I think we can ease more workouts into our lives without laying out a fortune --- and without investing in some exercise contraption from a late-night infomercial.
Frankly, you might be able to save money and save your health at the same time. If you spend less money on processed food in supermarkets or restaurant meals, you'll have more cash to devote to other areas of your life. Some forms of protein (beans) are cheaper and have fewer calories and fat than meat.
And what's a better alternative: paying whatever it costs to join a gym, or having to buy prescription drugs to treat conditions that some people can control through diet and exercise?
Sorry, that sounded way more preachy than is called for (and a little hypocritical for someone who hasn't laced up her sneakers in a week and a half), but you get the point.
Here's some frugal ideas for ways to get on the fitness bus without going broke:
Just walk or run. No need to purchase pricey equipment that may or may not be effective. If you can get around on your own two feet, you've got a means to incorporate aerobic exercise that only costs you whatever it will take you to set aside time to do it.
Got a packed schedule? Wake up early, try going during a lunch break, or schedule them late.
If you're ready to add a little more speed, you probably want to invest in some good running shoes and might consider signing up for a race as a goal. Over at Runner's World, they've compiled some tips for saving money on running expenses.
UPDATED: If you're thinking about running, also consider joining a running group to get some company --- and perhaps a little friendly pressure to keep coming back. MarylandRunning.com has a list of Maryland running clubs as well as upcoming Maryland races.
Head to the library. Check out workout videos or DVDs for free. With any luck, you'll remember to return it before you get bored with it.
Sign up for low-cost classes at your local recreation center. All counties surrounding Baltimore and the city itself offer cheap classes at different times --- a great option for exercise rather than signing up for a gym.
Buy used fitness equipment. Erin Hufstetler of the Frugal Living blog recommends checking thrift stores, Craigslist and Play It Again Sports stores for used fitness equipment and sporting goods.
Sneak in activity. Save on gas by parking in the first space you see rather than cruising around to find a space close to your destination. Or, avoid driving entirely. You could also take the stairs instead of the elevator. If walking up a flight makes you out of breath, try walking down them instead.
Of course, you should get medical advice before starting any exercise program. And let us know what works for you!
UPDATE: be sure to check out part II of this post for even more cheap fitness and exercise tips --- including links to local recreation programs for low-cost fitness classes.
Comments
Liz--get those exercise shoes on! I'm on my way to the gym (best $30 I spend a month), but my sister works out to exercise segments she finds on her cable on demand. Look under "sports and fitness."
Heh heh ... yes, I'll be running again soon enough. But TV exercise shows are another great idea! --- lfk.
Posted by: Dahlink | January 1, 2009 7:59 AM
Unless you're going for a super-sculpted physique, you can accomplish most of your goals and stay fit without ever joining a gym. Running and doing simple resistance exercises (situps, pull-ups, push-ups, etc.) provide about all the workout you need for a healthy lifestyle.
True, true. I used to think I couldn't run outside, only on a treadmill, because I wouldn't maintain a pace without the threat of falling off a machine. In fact, when I would run outside I would run so fast (in order to get it over with) that I'd make myself sick. Thankfully good running peers have helped me with that problem. --- lfk
Posted by: Nick | January 2, 2009 9:40 PM
What's better than trying out a free yoga or pilates class? My studio/clinic is offering the first class for free so you can get a taste of your preferred class before you invest the "big bucks"--actually, it's only $10/class for drop-ins or you can purchase a discount card for $90.00 and get 10 classes in a 3-month period. Good deal?
How about free demo classes for yoga styles you've never heard of?
FREE Dhanda yoga demo class on SATURDAY, JANUARY 31st @ 11AM and
FREE YRG: Yoga for Regular Guys/Gals on SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 7th @ 11AM.
For more info: www.wholechiro.com.
Posted by: Dr. Tom Hyland Robertson | January 30, 2009 9:24 AM