7 ways to get fit in 2014 while saving money

New year, new you. We hear that every January and we usually forget about it by February. The truth is the reasons why we fail at reaching our fitness goals are what I call excuses. As a former certified personal trainer, I tell my friends and family there’s always a way around your biggest fears, and since this is a money saving blog: Save some money while you’re at it.

1. You don’t need a gym. Whether you’re shy and feel judged at the gym or you don’t have the extra cash to pay a monthly fee, you don’t need a gym to exercise. Walking or running around the block, riding a bike or going hiking are all free. If you already pay for Internet or have a smartphone with internet access, YouTube is your friend. Watch exercise videos at home. You can also buy DVDs and fitness programs that need minimal equipment. If you like equipment, some basic items can be found cheap: A stability ball, a medicine ball and a resistance band.

2. Not all gyms are created equal. If you feel you can’t stay motivated at home and need the gym environment, shop around for clubs. Some are very basic, with cardio and weight equipment alone, without the added spa-like pluses like massages or tanning. Some have kids clubs, others have basketball court or a pool. Usually, the more amenities, the more expensive. Find one that fits you and your budget.

3. Look for deals. Start by downloading a free trial, typically found on gyms’ websites to test out the facilities for free before you commit. Some gyms charge a sign-up fee, but those are usually waived if you sign up for a packet or enter a contract. If you’re looking for a training session, you could try negotiating prices that may add a few sessions for free. Try online, social media and sites like Groupon and Living Social for good deals. You can also find the same types of deals for equipment for home.

4. Home cooked meals. When trying to save money, you can usually pocket some extra cash by cooking instead of going out to eat. The same applies to staying fit. Eating lean meats, fruits and veggies can accelerate weight loss, especially coupled with exercise. This also means trimming fatty foods like fast food. Look online for easy recipes you can cook ahead of time that can help you juggle your busy lifestyle. By buying exactly what you need to cook, you can save money. In the end, you only buy what you need.

5. Apps are your friends. To hold yourself accountable, use social media to share your progress, struggles and successes with your friends. All the support will translate into continued accomplishments, and that will translate into savings by cutting out expenses like health problems, large clothing and unhealthy (sometimes costly) lifestyles. Some phone apps can help you track calories, distance and more. In others, you can track what you eat. Some will even pay you for keeping an exercise plan, while charging you when you don’t reach your goals.

6. Company savings. Find out if your employer offers incentives for leading a healthy lifestyle. Some may offer reimbursements for joining a gym and going to it. Your work may also pay you incentives for maintaining a healthy weight or BMI, not smoking or for exercising a certain amount of time. Also worth a try: Bring up an offer to your employer if it doesn’t already incentivize you to be healthy. They might be willing to help, somehow.

7. Make getting fit a lifestyle, not a chore. When you do something because it’s part of your routine, it becomes more enjoyable and more pieces fall into place. You’re healthier, which keeps you from serious illnesses. When you’re active, you have more energy, which can increase your mood and productivity, translating into possible advancements at work.

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