By John Hand –
Like most prices lately, the cost of a gym membership has risen. Even Planet Fitness, the gym chain known for it’s incredibly low membership fees, just recently hiked membership prices for the first time since 1998. For those looking to trim gym costs, now might be the perfect time to explore alternative ways to stay fit without breaking the bank.
Those looking at the high end of the scale—a luxury gym membership—are facing astronomical prices. Consider Equinox’s annual $40,000 membership fee. It does include gym access, a nutritionist and blood work.
“You can buy a Chanel bag every year, but health and looking well is the ultimate luxury symbol,” Equinox Vice President Julia Klim told The Economist in explaining the golden price tag.
So, what if someone wants to look good without literally breaking the bank? There are cost-friendly options and plenty of ways to stay healthy while avoiding the burden of rising gym costs.
Start by thinking of YouTube. There is an ocean of fitness instructors who post a wide range of free instructional videos on the platform. People are watching them too. A decade ago, for example, 5,500 year’s worth of yoga instructional videos were viewed annually.
Free, of course, doesn’t always mean good or effective. This means that in addition to finding the right workout session, it is critically important to research to find the right online instructor. After all, anyone can post to YouTube so, fact-checking to make sure the video is giving proper instruction is important.
YouTube isn’t the only option. There are other streaming platforms that offer free or low-cost workout videos. US News has helped by identifying six frugal streaming options to consider.
Streaming, of course, isn’t only one low-cost option. Another approach to trimming costs and fat is to take advantage of public facilities. Many high schools have outdoor tracks that can be used for free for walking or running. A growing number of communities also offer walking and hiking trails. These trails offer a great way to enjoy nature and get exercise—all for free.
Walking, admittedly, may seem mundane and even simple. However, the benefits of completing a 30-minute walk daily are significant and include lowering the risk of heart disease, reducing stress and improving the immune system. All of these benefits not only come free but they are produced while being easy on joints.
The gym also doesn’t have to be the exclusive domain for weightlifting. Household items can be easily transformed into weight-training equipment. Cans of beans or diced tomatoes, for example, weigh about a pound each, making them perfect for light lifts. Heavier options can be made from two water jugs and a broomstick. The jugs even provide easily adjustable weights depending on how much water is put in each one.
A basic household stairway is another cost-free exercise option. It can be turned into a perfect Stairmaster. Next, a chair can be used for triceps dips and a bottle of laundry detergent can be turned into a kettlebell. The weight training tool options, ultimately, are only limited by the creativity of the user.
Those still in need of a gym can still avoid high initiation or monthly membership fees if they know where to look. Many local colleges and community centers, for example, offer inexpensive fitness classes. There are also apps like Class Pass that offer inexpensive credits that buyers can use at gyms in their area. These apps often give deals and discounts that make getting to the gym easy and affordable.
The bottom line is that soaring gym prices don’t have to get in the way of keeping fit. Creativity is a great way to stay fit and healthy without breaking the bank.
