Sweat it out.
After a long, cold winter, you might be ready to put some more effort into your workout routine. To get back in shape on a budget, consider these tips from the Frugal Shopper blog contributors. They’ll give your muscles a workout while leaving your wallet intact.
Use an app.
As BeFrugal.com founder Jon Lal points out, there is no shortage of free apps available to help you tone your body. He recommends Runtastic Six Pack, which features exercises to help tone your core; Johnson & Johnson 7-Minute Workout, which is as quick as its name suggests; and Yoga-pedia for those who want to stretch without paying $20 per session.
Hit a playground.
If you have young kids, then this option is a good one for you. Jennifer Saranow Schultz, founder of HintMama.com, suggests jogging around in the park while your little one plays or doing pull-ups on the equipment. If the playground is nearby, you can also push a jogging stroller to get there.
Exercise together.
You might have more success sticking to a routine if you do it with your family members. Schultz suggests a family jog or vigorous walks through kid-friendly destinations, such as zoos or nature trails.
Try free classes.
Gyms and studios often offer free classes for people weighing a membership, and deal sites like Groupon and LivingSocial often feature discounts for exercise classes, too. You might also be able to score a discount just by asking, especially if you’re a new client.
Get a membership.
Instead of a traditional gym membership, consider new innovative offerings such as ClassPass (unlimited access to network studios for just $99 a month), Fitmob (a similar concept available in specific regions) and FitReserve in New York City (different plans offer varying discounts). The memberships might also encourage you to try something outside your normal gym routine.
Skip the fancy workout clothes.
New lines of high-end workout gear seem to be launching every day, from Kate Hudson’s Fabletics to Carrie Underwood’s Calia, but they aren’t always easy on the budget. Unless the paparazzi are after you, you can safely work out in comfortable clothes that don’t necessary belong on a fashion runway.
Track your progress.
In addition to downloading fitness apps, you might also want to consider using apps that track your food intake, weight and sleep. Argus is one free option. Popular wearables, like the Fitbit, also come with apps to help you easily track your steps.
Watch a show.
Watching television doesn’t usually come with health benefits, but if you’re watching and following along with a YouTube workout video or On Demand show, then you can learn a new routine and have fun in the process. If you already have access to cable, then you can probably access exercise shows for no additional charge. And you can always catch up on your favorite shows while working out on a treadmill, elliptical or stationary bike.
Join your community.
Amber Sager, a spokeswoman for Offers.com, suggests checking out local groups through Meetup.com. People often get together to play sports, hike or run, and it doesn’t cost anything to join. Plus, you might make some new friends.
Take a DIY approach.
Whether you opt to jog around the block or just go for a walk on your lunch break, getting exercise is all about embracing the habit of working out. Raising your heartbeat whenever you can, by taking the stairs or walking somewhere instead of driving, can help you stay in shape for the long haul.
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10 Ways to Stay in Shape on a Budget originally appeared on usnews.com
