Disclaimer: While I hold exercise in high esteem and subscribe to the belief that it positively affects just about every area of one’s life, I’ll be the first to admit that staying active – daily, habitually, faithfully – is a struggle. What with work, home projects, kids soccer games, and all the rest, exercise often ends up relegated to the back-burner. That said, as a former athlete, I’ll sing its praises till I’m blue in the face, having experienced its innumerable benefits. So – as is often the case in my articles – know that I write as a fellow WIP (work-in-progress) who hasn’t run more than the distance between the kitchen and the couch for the better part of a year. And with that embarrassing admission – let’s get started, shall we?
If you’re itching to begin or to resume a more active lifestyle, there are numerous measures you can take to make your pursuit of fitness more affordable. A common misconception is that you have to be prepared to shell out if you wish to get in shape, but the fortunate reality is that exercise can actually be an economical undertaking.
Before you sign up for a costly gym membership or run to a pricy personal trainer, try the DIY method first. One of its perks is that it affords you flexibility in deciding where, when, and how to exercise. And unlike more structured fitness programs, it costs as little as you like, depending on what you’re willing to spend on equipment costs. If you realize after a while that you would benefit from something more rigorous and guided – and that you have the room in your budget to do so – then by all means seek out a gym, program, or trainer that accommodates your needs.
In the meantime, though, give the following suggestions a quick read as you look to get fit affordably:
Lace ’em up and go for a stroll.
This is perhaps the most obvious DIY option. As long as you have a comfortable pair of running or walking shoes and some active clothing, you’re ready to get started.
- If your job requires that you remain seated for most of the day, then going for a jog or a walk before or after work may be just what you need to boost your energy and let off some steam. Studies increasingly show that a sedentary lifestyle can be as deleterious and life-threatening as smoking. In light of this, we should view exercise as an imperative, not merely an option.
- Perhaps you love the thrill of competition but currently lack the fitness to compete. If that’s the case for you, then start small – a 20-minute walk, daily – and gradually increase the time, distance, and/or intensity of your activity. Over time, move to a jog and then to a run. When you’ve regained sufficient stamina, consider signing up for a 5K, a half-marathon, or even a full marathon! (Even typing such a thing makes me winded.)
Scout out exercise equipment on the cheap.
There’s a lot of it out there. Whether you’re in the market for new or used items, with a quick trip to Amazon, Craigslist, or Ebay, you’ll be able to begin building your home gym from the ground up.
- There’s nothing wrong with high fitness aspirations, but don’t go too big too fast. For example, it may not be the best idea to purchase the decked-out, high-dollar weight set when you haven’t done a bench-press since, well… ever. Don’t overexert yourself or overextend your budget, lest you find yourself in a financial pinch or wind up with a pinched nerve.
Skip the weights.
If you’re averse to the idea of lifting, capitalize on calisthenics to get a good, well-rounded cardio workout that relies primarily on your body weight. A huge perk of this method is that minimal equipment is necessary – maybe a yoga mat or some resistance bands. What’s more, if you feel like you might need some guidance, there are countless videos online that provide free exercise instruction, often from longtime trainers.
Head to the great outdoors.
While a good ol’ jog around the neighborhood goes a long way, consider taking a detour from the well-trod, nicely paved paths of suburbia by venturing to a hiking trail periodically. This option lends itself to group outings with friends and family, while also grounding you – and astounding you – in the beauty of creation. Exercise aside, being out among nature is a salubrious act in and of itself.
Get active with a purpose.
If you struggle to stay motivated without having an objective in mind – a common obstacle to fitness resolutions – then look for opportunities to get active in the area of service. Find a philanthropic outlet in your community – perhaps one that conducts clean-ups of natural habitats or that builds homes for the disadvantaged. Or look for an organization like St. Jude or the Alzheimer’s Association, which host runs and/or walks every year to bring attention to their causes. Plan to train and fundraise in preparation for the big event.
Make getting fit a collective effort.
Whether it’s with your family members, friends, or coworkers, exercise is often more entertaining when it’s done in a group. Invite some folks to a game of pick-up basketball after work; encourage your spouse to join you for an evening stroll; kick the soccer ball around with your kids after school. There are plenty of possibilities to choose from.
- Of course, if you enjoy the solitude afforded by solo exercise, don’t feel compelled to include others in your routine. You may prefer to save group activities for special occasions rather than making them the norm – and that’s okay.
Fitness doesn’t have to impose a financial strain. It’s tempting to assume that a boutique gym membership or a state-of-the-art home gym is a must. But in reality, there are numerous ways that you can work out for free or for minimal cost, and still achieve the health goals that you’ve set for yourself. Don’t let financial constraints keep you sidelined – get active while staying within your means!
