Cost of fitness: staying fit without breaking the bank

Exercise. It's something we know we need to do, but often don't. Many throw their personal fitness goals out the window because they think they have to spend a lot of money to stay fit. But you don't have to spend an arm and a leg to take control of your health. "Due to heavy marketing and advertising of gyms, supplements and exercise equipment, people mistakenly think that these expensive methods are the only, or proper, way to stay healthy and fit," says Ian K. Smith, M.D., author and diet/fitness expert for VH1 's Celebrity Fit Club. "The truth, however, is that it can be quite inexpensive and cost no more than a jump rope, a good pair of sneakers and exercise attire."

Here are a number of ways you can cut your costs without cutting the benefits of fitness:

WORK OUT AT HOME

You can start your own personal fitness routine right in the privacy of your own home. Depending on your personal fitness goals, doing sit-ups, push-ups, stretches and/or a combination of free weights can help you lose or maintain your desired weight. You can also look into purchasing exercise videos or DVDs that can range in price from $10 to $30, depending on the video. Or check out videos and DVDs for free at your local library. "Exercise videos can be extremely helpful for those who need a routine and need structured guidance," says Dr. Smith. "You must be careful to work at your level within the video as fitness conditioning can vary from person to person."

Depending on your cable programming options, exercise programs may be available at your request for no additional cost.

INVEST IN A GOOD PAIR OF SHOES AND OTHER BASICS

There is a variety of athletic shoes available on the market, but often your fitness activity will determine what type of shoe you will need. However, if you don't want to spend a lot of money on three different pairs of shoes, you should invest in a good pair of cross-trainers. Gym shoes lose cushioning after about three to six months. When shoes lose cushioning, they can't adequately absorb the pounding or jarring of the exercises, which can lead to a variety of painful knee and ankle injuries, according to the American Council on Exercise.

In terms of additional proper fitness attire, it is all a matter of comfort. A simple pair of jogging pants or shorts and a T-shirt with proper undergarment support are relatively inexpensive--$25 to $30 or less.

Fitness experts also suggest that you invest in a pedometer, light weights (5- or 10-pound dumbbells) and resistance bands.

TRY USED EXERCISE EQUIPMENT

If you have the room in your home and the finances for your own personal gym, shop around at different sporting goods stores to get the best deal. Treadmills can range in price from $130 to $6,000; elliptical machines can range anywhere from $90 to $1,800; and stationary bikes can range anywhere from $200 to $700. Consider buying used exercise equipment to save some cash.

VISIT YOUR LOCAL YMCA/YWCA, COMMUNITY CENTER, OR SHOP AROUND FOR LOCAL HEALTH CLUBS

If you are considering joining a fitness club, take the time to shop around because prices can vary. To get a good deal, you often must sign up for multiyear contracts. "Gym memberships aren't necessary to stay fit, but they are extremely helpful if you use the gym enough," says Dr. Smith. "If you have the money, and if you have limited time to exercise, utilizing a gym is the way to go."

Another option for many people is the local YMCA/YWCA or community center. Membership dues vary in price from $30 to $50 a month for adults, but often there are financial-assistance programs available for individuals who can't afford the set membership rate.

INCORPORATE FITNESS INTO YOUR DAY

Take the stairs instead of taking the elevator, take a brisk walk around your neighborhood in the morning, or during your lunch break, or park farther away from the entrance at the grocery store parking lot. "Fast-paced walking, climbing stairs, jumping rope, riding a bicycle and swimming are rather inexpensive means of staying fit," says Dr. Smith. "It's more about being dedicated to a normal routine and not about the money you spend."

COPYRIGHT 2007 Johnson Publishing Co.
COPYRIGHT 2008 Gale, Cengage Learning