Can't Afford A Gym Membership? - Consider These
Alternatives
Buying a health club or gym membership can be quite expensive as anyone knows
who has joined a gym in January. There's a good chance you are paying more than
at any other time of the year. Getting in shape is always a good idea, but in
order to make sure it is your body and not your wallet that's getting the
workout, consider the following advice on gym membership and low cost exercise
alternatives from Virginia Garretson, president of American Credit Counselors.
Trial gym membership - It's a good idea to start with a trial pass to give
yourself a chance to be honest with yourself about how motivated you are.
Fitness clubs may offer one-week or one-month memberships on a trial basis.
Remember, the harder the club is to get to, the easier it is not to go. Visit at
least two or three easy to reach club close to your home or office and choose
the one that's best for you. Don't sign a contract right away by someone
pressuring you to sign on the dotted line, no matter how attractive the
membership package. Read the fine print on the contract to determine your
cancellation and automatic renewal clauses. Most clubs offer an opt-out clause
for three days after signing in which you can cancel the contract without a
penalty. Never sign a contract that includes interest charges.
If you absolutely can't afford a gym membership and your home is not exactly
well-stocked with the latest home exercise equipment, Garretson suggests these low
cost alternatives.
-
Outdoor Exercise - Instead of wasting your money on a gym membership, why not
buy a $100 road bike that will give you as much exercise as you want. Or you
might buy a good pair of even less expensive running shoes and take the dog for
a walk.
-
Exercise Tapes - Here's another great alternative to an outrageous gym
membership: Rent or buy some exercise tapes or DVDs, turn on the TV and start
exercising. It's like having your own personal trainer at home. You can do Yoga,
step aerobics, weight training routines or whatever else the trainers suggest.
-
Used Exercise Equipment - Consider purchasing
used exercise equipment available
from online merchants specializing in reconditioned machines. Check garage sales
and your local paper for used, or maybe even "never-used" equipment that is
still in top shape. It's better to put your money into your own
home fitness gym instead
of a gym membership.
-
Join A League - No gym membership is needed when you join group
activities through community centers, churches and work such as bowling,
softball, volleyball, soccer and flag football. They offer a great way to
exercise while having fun with your friends.
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