3 cheap ways to reach your fitness goals in the new year
With the holiday season upon us, you're probably thinking about how you want the new year to be different than the previous ones. If getting in shape is a top priority, eating well and learning portion control can be two great first steps. But finding affordable gyms can be difficult. If you're trying to reach your fitness goals without going over budget, check out some ways to get started.
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1. Take Advantage of the Internet
There are many resources available online that can make getting in shape easy – and most of them are free. You can find video tutorials or search for workout routines outline from different trainers and fitness publications. You can also use sample exercises to create a totally customized workout to perform in your own home.
You may have to buy or borrow supplies in the beginning. But using the internet and working out at home can be an affordable option for folks who don't mind making their own fitness schedules.
2. Shop Around
There are so many ways to get in shape, from yoga and Pilates to regular old weight training. If you prefer to exercise outside of your home, it's a good idea to do some research and find a gym or fitness studio that's not too expensive. YMCAs and places like Planet Fitness and Blink offer reasonable monthly packages. Although these are some of the best gyms for your wallet, it's important to make sure you're getting in an adequate workout whenever you go there. Don't use the low monthly cost as an excuse to skip out on your workouts.
Related Article: The Economics of Personal Training
3. Try Before You Buy
Not all fitness trends are worth buying into, and you don't want to commit to an expense before you know what you'll get from it. That's why it's a good idea to try finding a gym or workout trend that offers a trial session or lets you test the waters for a week to make sure the location, hours and facilities work for you.
If you aren't sure that you're dedicated to getting fit in the first place, you can try some techniques at home first. For example, you can do some ab work on a yoga mat at home or go running in your neighborhood. If you like your trial runs, you can take your commitment up a notch. Trying things out first will ensure you don't waste money unnecessarily.
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Bottom Line
Keep in mind that getting fit is never a short-term process. The strategies we've offered can help you get started. But you'll have to make a real commitment to changing your lifestyle in order to reach your fitness goals.
Photo credit: ©iStock.com/Christopher Futcher, ©iStock.com/ranplett
The post 3 Cheap Ways to Reach Your Fitness Goals in the New Year appeared first on SmartAsset Blog.
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