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We all want to stay fit without getting an overpriced gym membership.
Just because you are on a budget doesn’t mean you can’t get a workout every day and have fun while doing so.
Some of the best ways to stay fit don’t have to cost you anything.
In this article, we’ll look at some fun and simple ways to get and stay fit while using things you already have in your home or neighborhood so you don’t have to spend a lot on a pricey gym membership or workout gear every month.
We chose these 24 ways to get fit without breaking the bank because they offer great fitness benefits and can also improve your finances.
So get ready to enjoy your newfound fitness and grow your bank account.
1. Use Public Spaces and Resources
To stay fit without spending money, visit your area’s public spots like parks, sports facilities, and walking trails.
They’re great for jogging, bodyweight workouts, or team sports.
Cities may offer free or inexpensive pools, tennis courts, and yoga classes, while libraries provide exercise guides, DVDs, and books.
2. Get Creative Outdoors
Mother Nature offers a vast fitness playground with activities like hiking, trail running, and mountain biking for calorie-burning fun.
If you enjoy water, explore swimming, kayaking, or paddleboarding in oceans, rivers, or lakes for a refreshing workout.
3. HIIT Workouts
You can do High-Intensity Interval Training anywhere, even in a small apartment or backyard.
This space-saving workout requires little to no equipment and offers a simple and free exercise choice.
4. Make the Most of Trial Memberships and Free Classes
Many yoga studios, gyms, and community centers offer trial memberships or free classes for newbies.
It’s a great way to test out different workouts and find what you enjoy, all without any money stress.
5. Use Fitness Apps and YouTube
The app store has free fitness apps to guide you through workouts, track progress, and provide coaching.
Many personal trainers and fitness influencers on YouTube share free workout videos, from beginners to advanced, so you can enjoy them without the need for expensive equipment.
6. DIY Fitness Equipment
You don’t need expensive gym gear for a good workout.
For weight training, use household items like water bottles, rice bags, and chairs; for cardio, use a jump rope.
7. Community Fitness
Community centers and local health programs throw free fitness challenges to get everyone in the community pumped!
From step challenges to group fitness classes, these events bring people together, encourage physical activity, and offer opportunities to meet new neighbors.
8. Join a Running Group
If you love running, consider joining a local running group.
Meeting for group runs is a great way to socialize, stay fit, and have fun while sticking to your fitness goals.
9. Join Charity Walks and Runs
Charity walks and runs are a fun way to stay fit and positively impact your community.
You can contribute to a good cause, enjoy a structured workout, and connect with like-minded community members.
10. Use Technology
Today’s smartphones and wearable tech provide free fitness tracking options.
With apps like Apple Health, Google Fit, and Fitbit, you can track all your health trends in one place. What an awesome motivator!
11. Add Fitness to Your Daily Routine
Walking or biking to work, taking the stairs, or doing yoga at lunch can easily fit workouts into your day.
This is a great way to keep moving throughout your day without any dedicated gym time or spending extra money.
12. Do More Physical Labor as a Volunteer
Volunteering for physical activities like community cleanup, gardening, or assisting friends in moving can be a great workout.
It keeps you fit and brings the satisfaction of helping and contributing to the community.
13. Park Fitness Stations
Many public parks have outdoor fitness stations that are free to use.
These stations offer various bodyweight exercises that can provide a complete full-body workout.
You can also make a circuit of these stations and challenge yourself with different exercises to keep things interesting.
14. Dance Parties
Crank up the music and throw a dance party at home!
Dancing helps burn calories, lifts your mood, and allows you to join fun online dance workouts and learn new moves while staying motivated.
15. Fitness Challenges with Friends and Family
How about joining an online fitness challenge with friends and family?
From a step challenge to virtual yoga sessions or a month-long plank challenge, adding a competitive edge can amp up motivation and help you smash your fitness targets!
16. Utilize Local School or College Facilities
Many local schools and colleges open their facilities to the public during off-peak hours. This can include track access, courts, and sometimes even fitness centers.
Call in advance to check for community access hours and any requirements for use, and take advantage of these resources for free or at a very low cost.
17. Add Fitness to Your Commute
Go biking or walking instead of driving for daily errands and to get to work.
By choosing active transportation, you can save fuel and improve your fitness.
18. Immerse Yourself in Nature
Spending time in nature improves mental and physical health.
For rejuvenation, take a walk in the woods or enjoy beachside yoga, embracing the outdoors for improved health.
19. Clean and Organize Your Space
Giving your home a good clean and decluttering can be quite a workout!
It makes your space cleaner and more organized, and activities like scrubbing floors and moving furniture can also get your heart pumping for an active day.
20. Use On-Demand TV and Apps
Besides the pre-recorded workouts on YouTube, you can find on-demand fitness programs on cable and streaming platforms.
There are a variety of workouts, from aerobics to weightlifting, and some are free with a subscription you already have.
21. Take a Free Fitness Workshop
Gyms and wellness centers sometimes have free fitness workshops that teach various exercises.
You can improve your fitness skills while enjoying a free workout.
It’s also a great way to explore new fitness styles you might like.
22. Save On Fitness Gear
Check out sales, second-hand deals, or online sites to trade fitness gear without breaking the bank.
If you do some digging, you can find top-notch gear at a much lower price than usual.
23. Take a Hike
Hiking is not only an excellent workout for your body, but it’s also a great way to connect with nature and clear your mind.
Since most hiking trails are free and open to all, lace up your sneakers and head out for an affordable fitness journey.
24. Walk Dogs
Walking dogs is a great way to get fit and make extra money!
Just advertise your services to neighbors or sign up for a dog-walking app to get started
burning calories, and making some extra cash on the side.
Ways to Get Free Gift Cards
Nowadays, people are looking for every means possible to make extra cash. One unique idea is to get free gift cards. Gift cards are a great way to help pay for the things you need without spending any money.
You can earn free gift cards for completing simple tasks in many ways. This includes getting paid for simple online tasks like playing games, completing surveys, and shopping.
Here is a complete guide on how to get free gift cards so you can spend less money on the things you buy.
47 PROVEN WAYS TO GET FREE GIFT CARDS
Best Frugal Living Tips
There is a misconception that living frugally means living a miserable life.
But the reality is, most frugal people are happier and wealthier.
Here are some simple steps to start living frugally and be happier as a result.
EASY FRUGAL LIVING TIPS FOR WEALTH
I have over 15 years experience in the financial services industry and 20 years investing in the stock market. I have both my undergrad and graduate degrees in Finance, and am FINRA Series 65 licensed and have a Certificate in Financial Planning.
Visit my About Me page to learn more about me and why I am your trusted personal finance expert.