One of the things I find most frustrating about the budgeted lifestyle is the lack of affordable fitness programs. You though I was going to say healthcare didn’t you?Blessed is she who can throw on her running shoes and head out on a 5k run every morning! Unfortunately, I have the knees of a 90-year-old man and running is out of the question. I prefer to participate in group fitness classes with the occasional frolic on an elliptical. But gym memberships and fitness classes can cost a bundle. Here are my PBP suggestions to break a sweat without breaking the bank.
Did you know that the YMCA has a pay-what-you can scholarship program? You have to prove “financial hardship” which is easier for some than others. If you have a YMCA in your area it is worth checking out. This is how I managed a full service gym membership (pool, equipment, free classes) for only $15 a month last year.
Every week, lululemon stores and showrooms turn their spaces into instant yoga studios offering complimentary classes on a first-come first-served basis. There are hundreds of stores throughout the US and Canada so check thier local stories website for class times.
In the summer many cities provide FREE outdoor exercise classes.
Are you in Chicago? Then head to Millennium Park on Saturday mornings for Yoga, Pilates and Zumba.
NYC? BryantPark hosts free yoga classes on Tuesdays and Thursday. New York also sponsors “Shape Up NYC” offering free fitness classes every week at dozens of locations across the five boroughs.
No matter where you live check with your local parks department for free community classes and discounted gym memberships. Many departments have small weight and cardio rooms that are open to the public through pay-per-use (about $5) or monthly/seasonal memberships. The parks department is also a great place to sign up for tennis lessons, find a running group, or join an intramural sports team. It might also be worth asking a local studio if they offer "community classes." These classes are either free or you donate what you can and the donations go to a local charity.
Groupon, Living Social, and You Swoop are also great places to get discounted fitness passes or classes.
Does anyone have any other suggestions?
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