There are so many exercises that come with a cost. There’s nothing wrong with not having to pay to join a gym membership. If you’re trying to save money, that doesn’t mean you can’t get some exercise in your daily life. You can still workout while sticking to your budget. Here are some alternatives to gym memberships that will increase your heart rate.
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Streaming
Instead of paying for an expensive gym membership, skip the gym by streaming at a workout at home. YouTube has plenty of free workouts that will get your adrenaline pumping. This allows you to get a heart-pumping workout in the comfort of your own home. You’ll have an excuse to get in a quick workout.
If you miss the community feel of attending a gym, start a running or walking group in your neighborhood. Use Meetup to create groups or join groups in your area. You get to meet new people, make friends, and have accountability partners. You don’t have to feel alone in your workout journey.
Exercise Equipment
Instead of spending money on a gym membership, you can rent used gym equipment. You can turn your home into your personal gym. Start small by looking for the equipment you want to use. Do you want Pure Barre and a yoga mat, or would you rather use a stationary bike and weights?
These little investments are sometimes more affordable than purchasing a recurring monthly membership. According to StatisticBrain.com, the average cost of a gym membership is $ 58 a month. You could use that money to invest in a few pieces of used gym equipment. Plus, you don’t have waste money on gas to get to the gym.
Mobile Apps
There are free and fee-based apps that are great alternatives to gym memberships. This gives you the opportunity to work out anytime with your smartphone. One popular app is Couch to 5K, a free app that motivates you to run a 5-kilometer race after going through the entire program. If you want a different kind of motivation, download the Zombies, Run app.
This will provide you with a one-of-a-kind running experience, especially if you’re a fan of zombies. Keep in mind that most mobile apps have in-app purchase options to access additional features. Make sure the money you use helps you reach your fitness and lifestyle goals.
Rent DVDs
The next thing you can do is rent DVDs from your public library. Some of the vintage workout DVDs still work to this day. Your library is well-stocked in workout videos from the years as well as new programs. Rent a few DVDs to see which ones you benefit from. If you find something you enjoy, you can probably buy it on eBay.
There might still be some video rental stores in your area. You can also look through the media section at secondhand stores, thrift stores, and yard sales. You’ll never know where you’ll end up finding cheap workout DVDs.
Get Out in Nature
Walking is a great workout because it’s free and it lets you enjoy the great outdoors. You can burn a lot of calories in a short amount of time. You can take a walk at any time of the day. You can even take a walk with your dog in tow.
When the weather gets warm, take advantage of the parks near you. If you’re not a runner, go for a bike ride, shoot some hoops at the basketball court, or play tennis or volleyball. Invite your family and friends to join you. Even if it’s a nightly stroll along the lake, there are plenty of ways to burn calories for free.
Do Yard Work
Your backyard can double as a gym. Sometimes doing routine yard work and getting stuff done can help you burn calories. Your yard gives you plenty of things to do like cut the grass, rake leaves, trim hedges, and more. Your yard will look beautiful, and you’ll be in better shape.
Move Around at Work
Working a desk job doesn’t mean you have to be confined to your seat all day long. Take a walk during your lunch break if it’s nice out. If it’s wintertime, listen to some music and walk a few laps inside your workplace.
Start an exercise group with some of your co-workers if you need some accountability. Find ways that you can move around throughout your day. For example, choose to stand instead of sitting. Take the stairs instead of the elevator whenever you can.