The weather’s warming up and we’re finally able to strip off all of those
bulky layers. The only downside is the nasty shock, when we see what’s lurking
underneath. For countless reasons, many of us tend to put a greater focus on
exercise, as the mercury rises. Of course, getting fit can be quite an
expensive endeavor – but it doesn’t have to be. Just give it a bit of thought
and consideration, before you pull out the plastic. It’ll help you trim the fat
in more ways than one.
Look Sharp
·
Tripping over baggy clothes
and standing out like a sore thumb is not motivating. You’re more likely to
keep at it, if you invest in suitable attire i.e. good runners, a sturdy
exercise bra and appropriate work-out clothes.
·
Pick up active wear at big box
stores, not designer boutiques. You want to look and feel the part, but spend
the absolute minimum.
·
Purchase sparingly at the
outset. Buy a few basics to get you started. Rotate outfits and launder
frequently.
·
Reward your commitment with incremental
wardrobe purchases, as your exercise program develops i.e. at the 3 month and 6
month mark.
Gear Up
·
Share equipment amongst reliable
friends, family and/or colleagues. It’s a great way to try new activities
without spending a dime.
·
If your tendency is to start
strong and tail off, pursue activities with low equipment demands i.e. running
or yoga.
·
Invest only in the basics, at
the outset. Add all the bells and whistles, as things develop. Start small and
expand after the time, and dedication.
·
Rent or purchase second-hand exercise
equipment during the honeymoon stage. Buy the good stuff only after you’ve demonstrated a long-term
commitment.
·
Don’t expect a large financial
investment to serve as motivation.
·
Utilize wellness programs with
your company’s insurance carrier - they often contribute to equipment costs
and/or pay towards gym memberships, annually.
Join In
·
Club memberships can be
expensive and often aren’t utilized to their full extent. However if it works
for you, shop around for a gym that’s super-convenient, reasonably-priced – and
avoid hard-to-cancel contracts.
·
Consider cheaper options like
community centers, municipal gymnasiums, local pools and school facilities.
They tend to offer seasonal classes
or one-offs, as opposed to demanding costly, long-term
agreements.
·
The Village People aren’t the
only ones to sing the praises of the YMCA. It’s open to all denominations and
offers state of the art equipment, at cut-rate prices.
·
Exercise DVDs and video
streaming are excellent alternatives to structured classes. They require
minimal investment and these home-based sessions fit easily into your regular routine.
Stay Flexible
·
It’s good to schedule regular exercise,
but fitness doesn’t have to be regimented to count. Keep it fun and exciting by
incorporating social activities like hiking, bicycling and golf.
·
Participate in team sports offered
through school or work, or organize a game of baseball or street hockey with
friends and neighbours.
·
Sign up for your favourite
charity run, bowl-a-thon or volleyball tournament. You’ll support a good cause
and get fit even faster.
·
Don’t shy away from physical
activity in general. Take the stairs. Walk to the dry-cleaners. Do some
housework. Don’t let yourself off easy because you already worked out today.
My last piece of advice is to avoid a radically changing your exercise
program, on a regular basis. Variety is good, but perseverance is better. Stick
with your plan long enough to enjoy the benefits, and both your body and
pocketbook will thank you.
For more easy-to-incorporate and insightful ways to save money, please
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