9 Tips to Get Fit While on a Budget

Working out and getting in shape is a personal goal for many of us. Whether we are trying to achieve a slender figure because of health, beauty or personal reasons, the truth is it doesn’t have to involve spending great amounts of money. We’re already investing time, energy and commitment to achieve our health goals so why should we break the bank in expensive programs, gym memberships, diets and equipment?

We all have different approaches and preferences when it comes to fitness. If you enjoy going to the gym and being with different people, then continue to do so. Sometimes working out when others are watching helps motivates us even more. Also, the gym is a great place to properly learn the correct form and technique of different moves. But not everyone has access to a gym. Maybe there isn’t one close to where you live or they are crazy expensive. Maybe you saw a new DVD program, but it costs too much and you need to buy tons of equipment. Or the new eating program, that promises to slim you down, costs more than your rent.

Don’t worry, because there are so many ways we can get fit for little or no money at all. Here are my 9 tips on how to get fit while on a budget.

Working Out

1. Use YouTube as your new personal trainer

A great way to save some money when it comes to workout programs like gym memberships or fitness classes is to use YouTube. There are so many great channels dedicated to Fitness. From cardio workouts, to strength training and even Yoga or Pilates, YouTube has an extensive catalog that caters to everyone’s needs. And the best part about it is that you can create a customized plan. With a little search, you can find tons of videos and add them to your workout playlist.

2. Use what you have around you

No need to go to the gym to get a good workout. Walking or running in your neighbourhood, using things around the house like the stairs, some benches or even working out in your own yard can be as effective and challenging.

Healthy Eating

You don’t have to try crazy diets to reach your fitness and health goals. Sometimes making small changes to your daily eating habits can make the biggest difference. In my case I eat a vegan diet but you can eat whatever meal plan you prefer. It’s all about finding balance and doing something that agrees with your personal needs.

As a general approach you can start implementing some small changes like:

3. Drink water

Avoid all those sugary drinks like soda, alcohol, processed juices, etc. Also don’t add sugar to your coffee or tea.

4. Make healthier food choices

Limit consumption of processed junk food like cookies, chips, candies, etc.

5. Don’t overeat or under eat.

Be mindful of your portion sizes and frequency of eating. Now I’m not telling you to starve yourself or to go crazy counting calories. Just be aware of how much food you’re really eating throughout the day. Listen to your body's needs. The important thing is to have balanced meals that include all forms of macronutrients and micronutrients.

Lifestyle Changes

A good, challenging workout program and a balanced meal plan are key to maintaining a fit and healthy body. But you also need to have a healthy mind to actually stay fit and enjoy your journey.

To achieve a balanced state of mind you can start by:

7. Learning how to relax and enjoy the things you’re doing.

Nobody is rushing you or pressuring you. Remember you’re doing this to improve your life and make it sustainable.

8. Enjoying the little victories.

Take each day as it comes and celebrate your accomplishments now, instead of worrying about the future, even if it means you only did one thing today that’s different from yesterday that will help you achieve your goals.

9. Don’t compare to others.

Remember we can lose weight, tone up and improve strength in different ways and at a different pace, which is okay. Celebrate your progress. And I’m not only talking about results. Also, just because your friend or coworker is spending money in a new gym membership, or buying expensive activewear doesn’t mean you have to do it. Nobody is going to pay your bills but you. So be mindful of your income and cut back on unnecessary expenses. You can always find less expensive alternatives.

That’s it for this post, guys. I really hope this tips are useful and can help you throughout your journey to get fit and stay fit without breaking your bank account.

As always, let me know in the comments if you found this post useful and don’t forget to like and share if it helped in any way.

Thanks for reading.

Disclaimer: I'm not a doctor, nutritionist or fitness professional. This tips are my personal advice on things I've implemented in my life and have worked for me. Before changing anything in your life, whether it's diet, workout or life practices, consult a trained and certified professional.

Until next time.

Gabriela Fernández

Copyright © Faërie Lifestyle. All rights reserved