Save Money While Getting in Shape
Posted By :Elena Difiore
Posted At : Tuesday, Apr 12, 2011
Swimsuit season is just around the corner and you know what that means-time to get in shape! If you’ve got love handles to lose but your wallet’s as tight as your waistband, no need to worry. The Unlock Your Wealth Staff is here with some great advice on cheap ways to get in shape!
Don’t Be Afraid to Negotiate
It’s no surprise that gym memberships can get pricey. One way to deal with the issue is to simply cancel your membership and focus on at-home exercises to take its place. However, if you can’t imagine achieving your workout goals without your gym routine, try out your negotiating skills. Many gyms are in desperate positions right now. They realize a lot of people are trying to trim back on their spending and one of the first things people look to cut out is unnecessary fees and memberships, which means gyms; that being said, try talking with representatives from your gym and explaining your financial situation to them. Have an amount in mind that you’d be willing to spend on the membership and see if it’s an acceptable rate in their eyes. You’d be surprised how much gyms and companies are willing to bend to keep a customer, especially in these trying times.
One Person’s Junk is Another Person’s Workout Gear
So you’ve decided to forgo the gym membership, but now what? Purchasing at-home equipment gear can be expensive. To avoid throwing hundreds of dollars down the drain, try scouting out your local used sporting goods stores. These types of stores can offer everything from weight machines and ellipticals, to free weights and athletic gear. While you’re there, try to find some items that seem fun and make you excited to work out (okay maybe notexcited, but at least dread the act of working out a little less). A personal favorite?-Rollerblades! Before you dismiss the idea as juvenile, think about how much fun rollerblading used to be. What you may not remember is how great of a workout rollerblading is, as well. You’re sure to feel your legs burning after a few blocks around the neighborhood, or maybe even a few miles, if you’re feeling ambitions.
Take Advantage of the World Wide Web
Nowadays is seems everything can be simplified by the Internet, so why should exercising be any different? If you’re looking to shed a few pounds while keeping your bank account fat, take a look at all that the World Wide Web has to offer. For example, there are dozens of exercising and workout sites that offer downloadable podcasts to guide you through your workout. Whether you’re into hardcore kickboxing or prefer the tranquility of yoga, there are sites that offer not only podcasts but also daily workout routines and exercise guides. Not only are there hundreds, if not thousands, of workout routines and tips online, the best part is that many of them are absolutely free! While you’re at it, try looking up some heart-healthy, low-calorie recipes, as well. Everyone knows that when it comes to losing weight, exercising and eating right go hand-in-hand.
Whether you’ve got 15 pounds to lose or 150, working out is a commitment. That being said, although getting in shape can seem like a daunting process, it doesn’t have to drain your bank account. Getting in shape can be stressful as it is without having to worry about the financial aspects on top of it. By investing in low-cost exercise options, you won’t feel the guilt and buyer’s remorse of that weight machine turned clothing hanger hiding in your basement.
