How to get fit on a budget: Five affordable exercise tips

With the rising cost of living in South Africa, everyone’s looking for ways to save a little cash. Gym memberships can sometimes be costly, or you may not be in a position to cough up money on a brand new home gym right now. You don’t, however have to give up on getting exercise! If you are wondering how to get fit on a budget, we rounded up some tips to help you out.

HOW TO GET FIT ON A BUDGET: TRY THESE EXERCISE TIPS

Getting fitter doesn’t have to be expensive. Whether you’re looking to build muscle or lose weight, you can still hit your fitness goals without breaking the bank. Here are some ways to get fit on a budget in South Africa.

GO OUTSIDE

No gym? No problem! Exercising outdoors is a good way to get active… and it’s free. You can walk, run, or hike outdoors to get fitter and healthier. Some communities and beaches also have free outdoor gym facilities that are open to the public for use.

Not only is exercising outdoors inexpensive, but it is a great way to take in the beautiful scenery. Ensure you are safe by using secure outdoor areas, such as parks with good security. You can also exercise with a group of friends to make your workout even more fun.

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BUY OR BORROW USED FITNESS EQUIPMENT

Working out at home is a good way to save money on gym fees, but fitness equipment can be costly. A good way to get affordable equipment is to buy used instead of new. You can find used equipment online or at second-hand stores.

If you can’t buy, try borrowing. You may have friends and family with old fitness equipment that they are not using. If you know a fitness lover that works out from home, consider asking them if you can rent out their equipment or home gym for an affordable price.

CONSIDER BODYWEIGHT EXERCISES

Can’t afford to spend any money on gym equipment? That’s okay — Bodyweight exercises are a great way to get stronger and fitter without breaking the bank. They can be done anywhere, making them convenient and accessible for everyone!

There are plenty of bodyweight exercises you can choose from. Some popular exercises include planks, chair dips, chin-ups with a table, squats, and pushups. If you’re a beginner, start with shorter sets and reps and work your way up.

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WATCH ONLINE EXERCISE VIDEOS

Online exercises or classes are a great way to get fitter without actually leaving your home. You can find affordable or free online exercises on platforms such as YouTube and Netflix. Search online for everything from free HIIT classes or Zumba classes to enjoy a good, heart-pumping workout session.

FIND AN AFFORDABLE PERSONAL TRAINER

Personal trainers are trained professionals that can help you to reach your fitness goals. Regular sessions with a trainer however can sometimes be costly. Consider looking for a trainer who offers negotiable rates for your budget or one who can offer you flexible payment options (such as a monthly payment plan).

Remember: Health is wealth! Staying fit is a good way for you to save money on health bills in the long term. We hope these tips on how to stay healthy on a budget help you to stay motivated as we head into much warmer weather.

ALSO READ: 5 healthy foods that will SAVE you money at the till

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