How to keep fit on a budget
Staying in shape needn’t require an expensive gym membership or costly equipment. With a little planning you can set up a workout routine no matter how small your budget.
- Keep it varied. Professional trainers usually recommend a routine that combines core conditioning, all-over strength training, cardio and flexibility. Plan different activities so your workouts cover all of these areas. For example, through the week, do pilates (to work core muscles), free weights (for strength), jogging (for cardio) and yoga (for flexibility). Or choose an activity like swimming that combines more than one.
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Set up your own gym. With a few basic pieces of equipment, you can get a workout that’s just as good as — or better than — the expensive machines at tony gyms. Choose one or more of: a Swiss ball, fitness balls (weighted), balance board, step bench, resistance bands, dumbbells, or a floor mat. Most of these can be purchased for less than $50.
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Super money saver: use cans of beans or bottles of water as weights, your staircase as a step, old pantyhose as a resistance band.
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Purchase a few DVDs. Having someone walk you through the routine gives shape and discipline to your workouts; having several on hand prevents boredom.
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Super money saver: Borrow DVDs from your local library. Order a new one before the current one is due.
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Check out your community centre. If you enjoy the social interaction and structure of classes, look for lower-cost (or free) classes at your local school, community centre or sports facility.
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Enjoy the great outdoors. Cultivate a love of outdoor activities such as cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, cycling, walking or running. Many turn out to be less expensive than a seasonal gym membership, even if you factor in the initial investment in equipment and clothing.