We have all been there, trying to become more active or actually doing the new years resolution you had for the past five years. But one of the things that might be stopping you from starting that new exercise routine is the cost of gym membership and fitness classes. Fitness is not a privilege, but a right, yet those price tags make it a grudge purchase. This blog will show you how you can stretch your dollars and shrink your waistline, helping you to reach your fitness goals and keep your piggy bank intact.
Use Free Trials
Sample Before You Commit
Many fitness studios and gyms give newcomers free trials or even introductory classes. These are great to have a look and experience what they have to offer before you sign on the dotted line. Get a feel of the atmosphere there, see how clean the space really is, assess the quality of the equipment and if they have a variety of classes. Make sure what they have to offer aligns with your fitness preferences and goals. Do they give you continued instructions or let you flounder around? You will get a more clearer picture of where to invest your time and money when you sample different gyms and classes. You will also feel more at ease knowing that the class package or membership you choose in the end truly is the best value.
Online Free Classes
The internet has become our daily go-to for many things, including fitness classes and resources. This is a perfect fit if you are one of those that doesn’t want to spend a dime. You can scroll through and search for a workout video that fits your fitness level and preference on platforms like YouTube, Instagram, and many other fitness apps. From strength conditioning and HIIT (high-intensity interval training) to pilates and yoga, whatever you’re after, you will find it on the internet. You can build a diverse and effective workout regime from your home with the help of a certified trainer or fitness influencer. They even post full-length workout routines and classes on the platforms that you can use, with detailed instructions. You will have the added benefit of flexibility to do your virtual classes on your own schedule, so there is no excuse not to stick to your fitness plan.
Look for Discounts and Deals
Seasonal Promotions
You can get a huge reduction in your fitness expenses when you take advantage of seasonal promotions. That is because many gyms and fitness studios try to up their membership numbers by offering special rates and discounts during certain times of the year. These can be summer fitness programmes, New Year’s resolutions, and back-to-school specials. During these promotions you can have your sign-up costs waived, get your membership fees reduced, or even get lower prices on bundled classes. There are even huge savings on online memberships, fitness gear, and apparel during holiday sales events like Black Friday and Cyber Monday. By staying in the know about these seasonal deals, you can keep more money in your account and get started on your fitness dream at a fraction of the cost.
Group Memberships and Referrals
If you have friends or family that also have the fitness itch, then you can rope them in and take advantage of group memberships and referral programs at many of the gyms and fitness studios. These group deals are their way to motivate friends, family, and colleagues to join them. But on the other hand, you can also benefit with the extra motivation and accountability while you work out with your buddy. You can also earn rewards or discounts when you get others to join a fitness class or gym on the referral programs.
Opt for Budget-Friendly Alternatives
Community Centers
If you want more budget-friendly alternatives to normal gyms and fitness studios, then you can have a look into community centers. At a much lower price tag, these centers can still have you working out in fitness classes like pilates, yoga, aerobics, dance and more. There are some centers that even have swimming pools, sports courts and fully-equipped fitness rooms. Their membership fees are very economical and some even give you more flexibility with pay-as-use options. You will truly get a sense of community and camaraderie while you work on your waistline with some of the locals.
Outdoor Workouts
When you use public parks, trails, and open spaces as your fitness playground, then you will not only save a lot of money but also get a more refreshing alternative to indoor exercise routines. You can get your sweat on by running, walking, cycling or bodyweight exercises. You will still be able to get your comprehensive workout sessions done that includes strength training and cardio exercises because many parks come equipped with outdoor fitness equipment. Exposure to the fresh air and green spaces will also enhance your mood and bring your stress levels way down, giving your mental health a phenomenal boost. Boot camps or yoga sessions are some great group outdoor activities that you can do at a very low cost or even free.
DIY Fitness Solutions
Create Your Home Gym
Your home gym doesn’t need to be expensive. With a yoga mat, resistance bands, and dumbbells, you can start building your home gym. And as time goes by, add to your gym with a stability ball and pull-up bar. You can still get a solid workout with inexpensive pieces of equipment that requires a very minimal investment.
App-Based Training
Let your smartphone double as your personal trainer and download a budget-friendly fitness app. These apps can work out a structured plan and even give you workout reminders, all for the cost of a fast-food meal. There are many apps to choose from like MyFitnessPall, Sworkit, and 7 Minute Workout.
Conclusion
You shouldn’t have to drain your bank account to live a healthy and active life. If you look into new avenues and think outside the box, you will be able to find the best workout that you want to keep on doing.
