Maybe you made a New Year’s resolution to get in better shape. Maybe the person looking back at you in the mirror as you got into the shower convinced you it was time for a change. It doesn’t matter what your reason is, but if you want to start getting in better shape, now is the time! Of course, people spend a lot of money in an attempt to look and feel better, but don’t let that discourage you! There are plenty of ways to flatten that stomach, tighten those glutes and tone those arms without breaking the bank.

Gyms

Okay, we all know that a gym membership can be very expensive. Some people, though, feel that they need the gym to workout. Maybe they want to use specific equipment that only a gym can offer. Some people want to work with a trainer (although this can cost even more) in order to get their desired safety and motivation. If this is the case, pick your gym with care. Shop around and make sure you’re not paying for things you don’t need. Most gyms offer a free trial. Take advantage of it! See which gym fits your style and budget. Also, the shorter the contract the better. Great intentions don’t always equal great results. If you were to stop using the gym, but are locked into a 12-month contract, you would lose tons of money. 

Keep it simple

While gyms make sense for some, most people don’t realize that they don’t need a gym to get a great workout! You can get amazing exercise with a very small (or nonexistent) budget. First, think simple. You don’t need a futuristic machine with belts, levers, pulleys and pins to get results. All you need is… well… you! You won’t find any better exercise than running. It involves the whole body! Walking is highly beneficial too if you’re not quite up to running. Swimming is an amazing exercise as well. If you have access to a pool or a lake (as long as you don’t freeze!), you can get a full body workout with a good swim! Many middle schools and high schools have an open swim time, which may cost a dollar or two. Dusting off your old bike is another way to break a good sweat.

Don’t have dumbbells, bench presses and stacks of weights? Don’t worry about it! Think back to middle school P.E. Simple pushups, sit ups and squats are great muscle-toning exercises, and all you need is your body weight.

Ideas

Okay, so you’re inspired… but how do you start? Do you just start doing jumping jacks and wait for your six-pack to show up? Of course not. You need a plan! The Internet is a great place to start. There are more workout and fitness sites than you can count. A simple Google search of “easy home workout” or something similar will give you plenty to choose from. Look for one that looks interesting, and give it a try! If you like it, save it. If not, try another one next time.

Workout videos can also be very helpful. Don’t be too eager to whip out your credit card and buy a bunch of DVDs, though. You can often rent from a good selection at the library, for free! Cable channels, such as Lifetime, also often have workout programs that you can follow along with. Check your On Demand listings, too. Usually there is a section of workout videos there, as well.

Equipment

Is there some workout equipment you’d like to get? It can be expensive… Make the frugal choice and look in the classifieds or Craigslist. Often you’ll find someone who wants to get rid of what you’re looking for. Stores like Play it Again Sports also offer used equipment for cheap. Dumbbells, stretch bands, and jump ropes are examples of very inexpensive equipment that can be used for a variety of workouts.

One thing to not skimp on: your athletic shoes. Your shoes are your body’s foundation through your workout. Poorly designed or uncomfortable shoes can cause aches and injuries. Sure, look for sales, but don’t purchase them just because they are cheap.

How do you get exercise without spending too much? Share!