Cheap Gym Alternatives
Getting Fit Without Breaking the Bank
Faced with today’s tough economy, many people are finding it increasingly difficult to afford their normal personal splurges. Gyms have been hit hard by the change in spending and have seen rapid decreases in membership as people cut back. There are some great alternatives to traditional gym membership available, however, which allow fitness buffs and newcomers alike to achieve great results without spending a lot of money.
Fitness Boot Camps
Outdoor boot camps are an outstanding alternative to the traditional gym environment. Most are conducted by certified personal trainers who offer a great workout. Held in a group setting, boot camps are a fun way to meet new people and socialize while exercising. Costs can vary widely, but are generally nominal when compared to the amounts normally charged for personal training sessions in a gym.
In addition, there is no need to be intimidated when attending a boot camp. The stereotypical militaristic style the camps originally became known for has eased in recent years, allowing people of all fitness levels to attend. Kimae Dolan, Trainer and Coordinator of the nationally recognized Seattle Weight Loss Boot Camp, states that her program “has grown to accommodate the fitness aspirations of Seattle’s more athletic women alongside the needs of those women new to daily fitness.” Boot camps provide a great opportunity for attendees to get a challenging workout and personalized attention without breaking the bank.
Fitness Videos
An easy and more private alternative for those looking to get in shape can be found in fitness videos. There are many options available on the market, and most require little or no equipment. A good all-around system is Tony Horton’s P90X. P90X costs around $120 and consists of 12 DVDs and a nutrition program. While the nutrition program is a bit restrictive, the workouts offer variety and challenge even those at advanced fitness levels. In fact, Horton recommends that beginners not use the program due to its intensity. When starting the program, viewers begin a rigorous three month, 7 day a week training regimen consisting of strength training, cardio, plyometric, and flexibility workouts. The program is based on the principles of muscle confusion. This approach not only results in increased strength in a short amount of time, but also avoids the common trap of boredom that normally accompanies fitness videos.
Internet
If neither outdoor boot camps nor fitness videos are an option, the internet provides a quick and easy alternative. Websites such as Yoga Today offer hour long yoga classes daily. Set outdoors in beautiful Jackson Hole, Wyoming, Yoga Today’s experienced instructors offer a variety of classes for all fitness levels.
In addition, Drs. Mehmet Oz and Michael Roizen have created Real Age, a website dedicated to healthy living. The site is full of information on topics ranging from beauty, to medical health, to weight loss. There are several free workout videos available which vary in intensity level, and most require no equipment.
Hit the Pavement
If all else fails, those looking to stay in shape can simply get outside. Running and walking are great exercises that provide cardiovascular benefits as well as overall muscle building. Moreover, there is no cost or equipment involved and many find the activities to provide great stress relief. In addition, running and walking can be viable options for parents with small children. Kids can be taken along in strollers or on bicycles, allowing parents to exercise without the added pressure and cost of finding child care.
There are many options available to those who need to increase or maintain their fitness levels while saving money. Boot camps, videos, the internet, and simple Mother Nature can provide great, cost effective alternatives to traditional gym membership. With all the inexpensive choices available, there really is no excuse not to get moving!
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