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Exercise Economically

Don't Spend Money to Be Fit: Here's How to Exercise on a Budget

There's a lot of pressure to buy things. With fitness influencers, targeted social media ads and marketing from all the biggest brands, sometimes it can feel like you must purchase the latest and greatest products to succeed. 

That can be pretty discouraging, especially if you can't work it into your budget. Committing to regular exercise is already hard enough; adding financial stress can make it feel impossible. 

Here's the truth: You don't need to break the bank to cultivate your wellness. You can exercise without spending any money at all. How much money you have in your bank account doesn't have to stop you from meeting your fitness goals.

Sometimes there is no money to spare outside of basic necessities. That doesn't mean that exercise is off the table for you. Investing in your fitness doesn't have to cost a thing. Let's discuss how there are ways to exercise on a budget, try these options:

  • Walking: Walking is a great place to begin if you're wondering where to start your fitness journey. It's a free exercise that many favor for a very good reason. Walking is one of the best low-impact activities you can do for your body. A brisk walk can help you build endurance, strengthen your heart and boost your mood. 

  • Bodyweight exercises: You can get a good workout without any equipment -- all you need is your body weight. They are a valid form of exercise that you can use to increase your heart rate and help maintain your health. 

  • Fitness videos: Exercise videos are a great way to cut costs while still getting a good workout. YouTube is a great resource to exercise at home, with many channels targeting different exercise types like yoga, Pilates and full-body workouts. Online fitness classes are available to stream through TV apps like Prime Video and Netflix.

Don't underestimate the power of community resources when exercising on a budget. Many local gyms or YMCAs may offer financial assistance to cut the cost of membership. For those with a gym membership who want to take their workout to the next level without coughing up the cash, consider training with a friend. Finding a partner or group of friends committed to exercising can give you the accountability a personal trainer would provide. 

There are inexpensive fitness essentials that will give you just as great of a workout as high-end gear. Creating a home gym is a one-time cost that can last you a lifetime. 

Low-cost equipment for your home gym can include:

  • Dumbbells

  • Resistance bands 

  • Jump ropes

  • Kettlebells 

  • Yoga mat

It's possible to meet fitness goals like building muscle, losing fat, and strengthening your heart without breaking the bank.

To access the full article on how to exercise economically, click here. 

In partnership with the YMCA, Hally Health focuses on a variety of topics aimed at people of any age or fitness level who want to stay healthy and active. Try this Resistance Band Exercise Workout that’s sure to get your heart pumping. To view all our YMCA partnership fitness videos throughout the month, please visit hally.com or Facebook.com/HallyHealth