To keep your mind and body challenged, it's important to find new activities to fit into your exercise regimen. But some fitness trends can be expensive. To ease the strain on your wallet, here's a list of seven free and inexpensive workout ideas that will tone your body and put a smile on your face!
Indoor Rock Climbing
Rock climbing may seem like an odd type of activity, but the demands it places on the body provide a fantastic workout. You'll need strength, flexibility, and a sense of humor as you scale specially built walls rising thirty feet high or more. Safety is vital, so you'll be required to wear helmet, climbing shoes, and safety lines to prevent dangerous falls. Indoor rock climbing can range from $15-$30, but it's cheaper if you have your own shoes. Call ahead and ask if there are discounts available.
Rollerblading in the Local Park
This is an excellent workout for the hips, thighs and buttocks, especially if your park has hills to challenge you. The best part is that it's totally free! The majority of public parks welcome rollerbladers, but it's a good idea to check before skating. Remember to exercise appropriatecaution when blading, especially around large groups or playgrounds with small children.
Take a Trial Class
Nearly all studios and gyms will allow you to try out their facilities and classes if you are interested in becoming a member. Find a gym that offers an interesting class and explain you'd like to try it out. Nine times out of ten you will be allowed to take the class for free, getting a stellar workout at the same time.
Rent a Bike
Bicycle riding is an excellent way to shape up the legs. But if the last bike you owned was in the sixth grade, you can still enjoy the benefits by renting a bicycle from a local shop and pedaling around town. In larger cities, bike shops frequently offer tours or suggestions for routes. Renting a bike for a couple of hours usually costs between $8-$20, and there may be a small fee involved to release you from any responsibility for accidents or damage.
Use Your Tax Dollars
You pay taxes on almost every paycheck, so make those taxes work for you. Check with your local Department of Recreation and find out about county facilities that are available for public use. Many local governments set aside money to fund public tennis courts, swimming centers, softball fields, and more. As a citizen you have the right to use any of these resources, though some may require calling ahead to make a reservation. Find nearby public tennis courts, grab a buddy, and go play a couple of sets. It costs you nothing – except those precious tax dollars.
Get a One Day Pass
All gyms offer some kind of program where you can check out the facilities and services. Frequently this program is in the form of a one-day pass. Call a gym that you're interested in. Ask if they offer temporary passes for guests to evaluate the gym. Almost every time the answer will be yes. Take your one-day pass and make the most of it – take a class, try out new machines, and definitely use the sauna. This strategy allows you to check out the gym and add variety to your routine at the same time!
Do Some Good While Getting Fit
Call your local animal shelter and check to see if they use volunteer dog walkers. Often these shelters are understaffed and need the help of volunteers to give proper care to each animal. By donating your time to walk dogs, you give animals the chance to enjoy life outside the shelter while you get your exercise. Getting fit has never felt this rewarding!