How to Get In Shape for Summer While Cutting Fat from Your Budget

As wintry weather gives way to warmer temperatures, we often come out from hibernation to discover that last year’s swimming trunks are a little tighter. So are the short sleeve shirts we were looking to trade in for the winter coats. That can only mean one thing – they must have shrunk in the laundry. 

Unfortunately, this is usually not the case, but still a handy excuse.  Before you go blaming your dry cleaning guy, take a look at the scales.  Chances are you’ve put on a few pounds over the winter while enjoying the food around the holidays, and avoided your jogging routine thanks to snow and ice. Don’t fret; there’s plenty of time to get back in shape without busting your budget on a new wardrobe, or a crash diet.

Five Ways to Get In Shape on a Strict Budget

1. Ditch the gym membership. 
Seriously, can you even remember the last time you went to the gym?  And stopping by for a peanut butter protein shake doesn’t count.  Most of us sign gym contracts with the best of intentions, but find ourselves rarely visiting.  If you find yourself only going a few times a month it is probably not worth the membership fee.  When the time comes to renew, look elsewhere for ways to get a cheaper workout.

2. Shop online for home gym equipment.
It doesn’t have to be anything fancy. You can get a surprisingly good workout from a solid weight bench and dumbbells. Start with the basics and add to your home gym space over time, eventually maybe adding a rack or bench with attachments for leg extensions, etc.

3. Look for a comfortable pair of shoes. 
Again, avoid top-of-the-line styles and shop for a medium-priced pair of workout shoes based around the type of exercise you most plan to do.  For instance, joggers should look for a comfortable, light running shoe, while hikers and adventurers should look for something with more support such as a trail shoe or dedicated hiking boot.

4.  Watch classified ads and local gym closings for used cardio equipment.
While it's possible to get a great workout outdoors, it is not always feasible to pound the pavement based on weather, your schedule, or your shape. If this is the case, consider picking up a used treadmill, elliptical machine or exercise bike and take your workouts inside. 

5. Get back to the basics.
Despite all the advances in exercise science and equipment, it is harder to find a better workout than the basic movements: pushups, pull-ups, dips, crunches, and walking. They require no fancy training or equipment, and can be done practically anywhere.

Remember to consult a physician before beginning any exercise program.