Tight budgets can still afford to lose weight and get in shape

Everyone’s on a budget these days, but you don’t have to break the bank to break a sweat. There are many free and low cost options readily available. Get creative and try this simple advice to keep your body and your bank account healthy.


Do

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  • explore your community
  • create your own home gym
  • use technology to spice it up
  • take a trip down memory lane
  • sweat for a cause
Don't

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  • purchase equipment you won’t use
  • overcommit
  • overlook the perks of a gym membership
  • be lured in the wee hours
  • force a fad

[publishpress_authors_data]'s recommendation to ExpertBeacon readers: Do

Do explore your community

Investigate sources like meetup.com, or your local continuing education program or city's Recreation Services Department. Additionally, keep an eye out for daily deals such as Groupon for heavily discounted prices for anything from rock climbing to boxing.

Do create your own home gym

Invest in a few inexpensive items such as a mat, resistance tube and exercise ball and you can work out without leaving the house. Scour Ebay or Amazon for gently used items. Use a site like www.shop.com or www.ebates.com and earn cash back when you purchase your equipment from participating partners.

Do use technology to spice it up

You've got your gear, but now what? Surf YouTube, podcasts, apps and websites for material to mix up your workouts. There is a lot of free material available to add variety to your workouts. Check out Netflix for a variety of workout DVDs to sample and you'll have new material delivered right to your mailbox.

Do take a trip down memory lane

Remember those activities you enjoyed as a child? Try resurrecting your old hula hoop (or purchasing a new one) to strengthen your core. Or perhaps gathering a group in the neighborhood for some flag football or kickball. It’s a great way to bring back fun and foster community.

Do sweat for a cause

Many charities host 5k runs or fundraising walks. For a small donation you can support a cause close to your heart and do something good for your heart too. The old school approach of lacing up your sneakers and heading out for a walk never goes out of style.


[publishpress_authors_data]'s professional advice to ExpertBeacon readers: Don't

Do not purchase equipment you won’t use

You can find an inexpensive rack to dry your clothes on, so there’s no need to invest in a pricey piece of gym equipment that you may only use a couple of times, if at all. Simple purchases like a mat, some free weights, etc. can be enough to get you the workout you need.

Do not overcommit

Some gym memberships or exercise facilities require long-term commitments and fees for early cancelation. Be sure to read the fine print and ask questions to fully understand the policies.

Do not overlook the perks of a gym membership

Free massage, complimentary personal training services and other amenities are often available at the gym. Inquire about the additional services you might be eligible for.

Do not be lured in the wee hours

If you find yourself channel surfing when you can’t sleep, don’t be lured by the promises of the infomercial. Sure there are great products out there which garner results, but wait until the light of day when you are thinking clearly before investing.

Do not force a fad

Just because it’s all the rage, doesn’t mean you’ll stick with it or enjoy it. A chin up bar in your bedroom doorway is not for everyone.


Summary

Staying in shape doesn’t have to be costly. Follow these strategies and you won’t have to overspend to find the workout that will keep you healthy in body and wallet.

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