Fitness doesn’t need to cost a fortune. You don’t need fancy gyms and pricy Pilates classes to get in shape. Money Talk News has come up with a list of five free and low-cost exercise options – most of which you can do at home with little to no equipment.
Exercise videos – This is not your old Jane Fonda fitness class. Search YouTube and you’re sure to find a fitness instructor leading a free HIIT, yoga, or toning class. Your cable or streaming TV subscription may also offer exercise channels or free cardio workout videos. Generally, all you need is a laptop or tablet to watch and some affordable equipment, such as a yoga mat or exercise ball.
Workout apps – Free fitness apps offer everything from yoga classes to training programs to prepare you to run a 5K or even a marathon. There are also free fitness tracker apps to “plot your progress and keep you honest about how many minutes you spend exercising each day.”
Home gym – For less than the cost of an annual gym membership, you can create a workout space in your home. You don’t need big, expensive equipment. You can get a solid workout using only free weights, yoga mats, balls, and resistance band sets. Search thrift stores and community-based websites such as Facebook Marketplace for used equipment at fair prices and Buy Nothing for free items.
No equipment workouts – You don’t need to spend any money if you build a workout routine doing body resistance exercises such as sit-ups, push-ups, planks, squats, and lunges. Common household objects can substitute for workout equipment. For instance, use soup cans instead of free weights when doing bicep curls.
Outdoor activities – A pair of sneakers is all you need for most outdoor activities. Running, walking, and cycling are all inexpensive outdoor activities that will get your heart rate up and help build muscle. You can also get in a good workout playing catch or kickball with your grandkids.
For more tips on maintaining an active lifestyle, check out our other articles on Council of Seniors 365.
And be sure to stop by CouncilofSeniors.com to learn how we’re working to improve the financial well-being of America’s retirees.
