Getting fit doesn’t always have to be expensive. Yes, it can be nice to have a state of the art gym membership, or top of the line fitness equipment, but unfortunately it doesn’t always fit into everyone’s budget, especially when times get tough. Below are some ideas to get you started working out in your home or outdoors, so that you can get in shape without breaking the bank.
One idea is to buy equipment that is inexpensive and has more than one purpose. Many popular items such as ab or thigh machines only work one part of the body, can fill up a lot of space, and can get costly. So when looking for equipment to use find items that create variety and can work the entire body:
Stability balls can be used for a variety of exercises from abs to legs to arms. They also make great benches for a variety of exercises such as a chest press and can even be used as a seat at your desk.
Resistance bands are inexpensive, small, and lightweight. These are one of my personal favorites because they are easy when you are on the go. Take them along when you travel or when you are taking a walk.
Dumbbells will never go out of style. They are great for working out at home. They are less costly than larger fitness machines and they don’t use as much space.
Such equipment can be easily found at your local department or fitness store or online at www.power-systems.com.
Other low cost ideas to get fit outside of the gym include:
Buying, renting, or borrowing workout videos. There is a large variety of workout videos on the market from strength training to cardio dance to kickboxing. This is a fun way to exercise right in your living room. Check out your local store, library, video rental spot, or www.collagevideo.com to find some great DVD’s.
FitTV or ExerciseTV. Most cable packages will have one or both of these available with your package. This is another great way to get a variety of workouts right in your home.
Take it outdoors. When the weather is nice use the outdoors to run, walk, bike, or partake in an outdoor sport with your family or friends. Use picnic tables or benches to do step-ups, push-ups, or tricep dips. Or you could even join a running or walking club.
So I don’t want to hear any excuses! Utilizing inexpensive methods can be just as effective as the more costly ones, so get out there and exercise.
Written for Knoxville News Sentinel Fit Knoxville Blog.
