9 Money-Saving Fitness Strategies To Get In Shape
It's that time of year again; Christmas feels like months ago, and now you're desperately trying to get back into some sort of routine whilst not busting the post-holiday budget.
Creating a budget-friendly fitness plan doesn't have to mean sacrificing results; whether you're just getting started or an experienced athlete, it helps to know some money-saving strategies that can help maximise your budget and still give you the desired results. 
Today, we're going to cover some of the possibilities for saving money and getting in shape.
Let's get into it...
1. Join a Gym with Budget Friendly Membership Fees
There is a sweet spot just after Christmas where most (if not all) gym facilities will reduce their fees.
Do your homework to find the best deal that works for you and your finances - if you have the funds, you may want to consider signing up for an annual plan.
You'll likely get more bang for your buck, with some gyms offering discounts on yearly memberships if you sign up before the end of February.
2. Take Advantage of Free Workouts
If you live in the city, you may find that there are free classes being offered in parks and public spaces, such as yoga and Pilates.
These can be a great way to get some exercise without having to pay for an expensive gym membership.
You could also look into the many online fitness programs that offer streamed workout classes; you may find one that offers a free trial, so you can test it out before you commit.
3. Try Out Home Workout Routines
The pandemic saw a surge in people working out at home because, frankly - there was no other option... Lockdowns were lifted, however, the home workout was here to stay.
There are many low-cost options that can help you get fit without breaking the bank; think about investing in:
Alternatively, if things are extra-tight, use things in and around your home (bottles of water, cans, chairs, etc.) to get the job done.
4. Cut Back on Supplements and Gadgets
Ditching or cutting down on your supplements could be another money-saver; there are plenty of natural alternatives that you can incorporate into your diet which may have similar benefits.
Ditching or cutting down on your supplements could be another money-saver; there are plenty of natural alternatives that you can incorporate into your diet which may have similar benefits.
Take a look at your gadgets, too; the fitness tracker market is absolutely booming right now, and it can be an easy rabbit hole to fall down and to be persuaded into buying the latest and greatest. However, choose the one that fits within your budget as well as does the job you need it for - there's no point wasting money on the latest (read: super-expensive) one if you're not going to use it.
5. Recycle Equipment and Clothing
If you are starting from scratch, second-hand equipment will be your best friend when it comes to saving money.
You can look for local stores that sell used gym equipment, check out online ads or even ask friends and family members if they have any spare gear.
As for clothing, stick to basics: You don't need expensive gym gear, just something that is comfortable and doesn't distract you from your workout.
All you really get from that is another barrier to get you exercising.
6. Look for Deals on Exercise Classes
An excellent way of saving money on your fitness journey is to look for deals on exercise classes.
Many gyms and studios, as well as some rec centres, offer discounted passes, packages, and other promotions that can help you get a great workout at a fraction of what it would usually set you back.
Local businesses may also offer monthly deals or discounts that can be used to supplement your fitness journey.
Additionally, some websites provide subscription-based access to premium content from various instructors and studios.
By staying aware of any coupons or promotional offers available, you can easily reduce your overall expenses for exercising.
7. Take Up Outdoor Activities
It doesn't really matter where on the planet you live, the mere act of getting outdoors in the fresh air has a positive impact on mental health, and, at the same time, it can be a great way to save money on your fitness routine.
Take up activities like running, cycling, hiking, swimming or walking - all of these are free, and you can do them at any time of the day.
Additionally, get a group of friends together for a kickabout or a game of frisbee, as it can be a great way to stay in shape and be social; you can even take the whole family out for a fun day of activities. Running around after the kids alone will be a good workout!
8. Workplace Gym Facilities
If you work in an office with gym facilities, make use of them! This is one of the greatest perks of a corporate job, and it's probably free - or, at least, heavily discounted. That will save you not only time but also money!
Check with your HR department to see what the policy is; you may be able to use the gym for free during lunchtime or after hours.
9. Invest in Affordable Nutritional Plans
If you already have the fitness routine down, maybe you'd like to focus on a healthier diet?
Investing in healthy nutrition doesn't have to be a financial burden.
There are now many affordable and discounted options available, so you don't have to break the bank when it comes to eating well.
Take some time to research local services for meal deliveries, explore health-food stores for discount coupons, or look into buying in bulk from wholesalers.
You can also try growing your own produce if access and resources allow - there are lots of ways to get quality nutrition without having to pay premium prices!
In Summary
Even with a strict budget, you can still find numerous ways to get the most out of your current fitness regimen.
Take the initiative to search for budget-friendly gym memberships, cut back on unnecessary gadgets and supplements, look for deals on exercise classes, and even venture into outdoor activities.
And if you're interested in investing in nutritional plans, there are affordable ones available that can help maintain the balance between your physical activity and dietary habits.
Above all else, make sure to adapt your lifestyle adjustments gradually - keeping an eye on progress along the way.
The journey might not always be easy, but it is possible to find affordable solutions towards reaching health goals without breaking the bank.
Anything you'd like to add? Let us know in the comments!
