How to stay in shape on a budget

The cost of living for millennials is enough to turn even the strongest stomach. None are more hard-hit than those in the capital, where horrifically high house prices leave little money left over at the end of the month. How, then, can we be expected to pay for the gym? That enigma, we can’t help you with. But what we do know is that there are ways to stay active without breaking the bank. Here are four suggestions for economising without sacrificing your heard-earned fitness.

Online workouts

Most of us have a smartphone so can stream content anytime, anywhere! The great news is that there are lots of free workouts, tips and advice from a whole range of health and fitness experts online. In fact, there is so much out there that it can be a little overwhelming. Having to find the right workout and expert could be an excuse not to try, so we have done this bit for you: check this great post listing free workouts online. Also, thanks to the increased accessibility of personal training courses in London, there are lots of great PT’s out there who are looking for case studies to build portfolios and, as a result, offering big discounts to new clients.

Running

Running is a great form of exercise, not only because it’s a regular source of cardio, but because it’s absolutely free. Providing you have a pair of trainers, the routes are endless and you needn’t go further than feels comfortable for you. If you are just starting out, you could try downloading the Couch to 5K app free of charge, which will provide you with a special nine-week programme. If you are at a higher level of fitness, you can run to your heart’s content – complete a marathon, even – without paying a penny extra.

Walking and hiking

Another great way to stay fit is simply by walking – and the NHS agree. Though you might not think so, going on a long hike can be just as effective at burning calories as a short burst of high-intensity training. You could walk around your local area and explore the best trails, or if you really want to get the heart racing, hill-walking is a great alternative to squats at the gym. And the best part? You get an amazing view from the top. Hiking from the house won’t cost you anything, and travelling further afield needn’t cost you more than the price of your petrol.

Work out at the park

If you are the kind of person who can’t exercise without a gym, then why not find a park with workout equipment? Steele Williams, leading fitness expert at TRAIN, says that “using our bodies to improve our physiques is far too underrated”, and that “the benefits of moving your body through space are vast – exercises like pull-ups, press-ups, dips and glute-ham raises can help you hone a powerful and lean physique.”

Go back to point one, “online workouts”, to find examples of bodyweight exercises and routines.

As a result, powered by nothing but your own determination, these mechanisms are just as good at toning your muscles, but they won’t charge you a monthly membership. Alternatively, if you like the company of other people to give you extra motivation, pop along to your local park run on a Saturday, where you can monitor your progression within a friendly and supportive community.

There’s really no reason why empty pockets should prevent you from staying in shape. If anything, the extra obstacle of battling the Great British elements will train you better than any treadmill.

The editorial unit

We strongly recommend that you consult with your physician/GP before beginning any exercise programme. You should be in good physical condition and be able to participate in the exercise. The Upcoming is not a licensed medical care provider and represents that it has no expertise in diagnosing, examining, or treating medical conditions of any kind, or in determining the effect of any specific exercise on a medical condition.

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