Like most people, one of my New Yea’s resolutions was to get into better shape. While I am not overweight, I’d have a lot of trouble running a mile (unless a bear was chasing me.) So, I vowed to at least be healthier.
The only problem is that I’m as frugal as they get! So, I was very hesitant to join an expensive gym just so that I could add a few muscles here and there.
To fix this problem of needing to work out but not having a clear plan to do so cheaply, I began to brainstorm ways that I could get in shape on the cheap. Below is the result of that brainstorming session. I hope it helps you too!
1. Run down the street.
You definitely don’t need a gym to get a great workout. Try taking a run down the street instead. It’s definitely not fun during the winter months, but you will warm up as soon as you start jogging.
2. Walk your dog.
Walking the dog is a great workout because it works several different muscles, especially if your dog is prone to pulling like mine is!
3. Take the stairs at work.
Why take the elevator when you can run up the stairs? If you do that enough every day at work, you will definitely notice a positive change in how your clothes fit.
4. Help someone move.
No one actually wants to help others move, but we do it anyway because they are our friends. Plus, it’s a great workout.
5. Take a swim.
If you have a pool or a lake nearby, jump in for a swim. You will be surprised at how hard it is if it’s been a while!
6. Play ball with your kids.
It’s important to spend time with your children, so why not head outside? Throw them a ball, chase them, and have fun while burning calories at the same time.
7. Take your bike to work.
Many employers are actually paying their employees to bike to work, so you can actually get paid for this form of exercise. Win/Win!
8. Go camping.
Camping requires a bit of hiking, setting up the tent, and cooking, all great ways to exercise your arms and legs.
9. Take out the trash.
It’s not glamorous, but if you have a big family and your trash bag is heavy, it can actually make you break a sweat when you take it to the curb.
10. Stretch
Instead of sitting in front of the TV, stretch in front if it. Sit on the floor, put your legs in front of you, and reach!
11. Watch a yoga DVD.
Sure, you could go to a nice resort and take a yoga class, but you can also pop in a DVD for a bit of free exercise.
12. Learn ballroom dancing from YouTube.
There are many YouTube experts who teach ballroom dancing online. Set up your computer in your living room, grab a partner, and have a good time.
13. Do a handstand.
When you do a handstand against a wall, you don’t have to pay anything, and you get a great workout (just don’t stay there too long!)
14. Plant a garden.
When you do yard work, you can absolutely work up a sweat. Moving mulch and planting flowers takes hard work!
15. Start a kickball league.
Kickball is a great sport that anyone can do regardless of skill level. (Trust me, my skill level is zero, and I still play.) You can get great exercise this way and socialize with friends too.
I’m sure there are many other ways to work out and burn calories without spending your hard earned money on a gym membership! If you have any other ideas, please let me know in the comment section below!
Powered By DT Author Box
Written by Catherine Alford
Catherine Alford is a freelance writer who currently lives in the Caribbean with her husband and spoiled pup, Julep. She received a B.A. from The College of William and Mary and an M.A. from Virginia Tech. When she is not writing for various personal finance websites, she enjoys sharing her frugal and fabulous adventures on her blog, BudgetBlonde.com.
