Losing Weight for Free: Cheap Ideas to Get in Shape at Home
Friday, September 26, 2014, 1:00 AM | Leave Comment
Weight loss success is often due to a blend of eating healthy foods, and getting a good amount of exercise. When you don’t have the money to join a gym, it’s hard to imagine you’ll ever be able to get the body you want. Fortunately, getting in shape doesn’t have to involve spending time at aerobics classes, on the treadmill, or at the weight bench.
There are plenty of low-cost, or free methods to work out from the comfort of your own home.
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Get Moving Outside
Simply moving your body is a great way to get started on an exercise routine, so strap on your shoes, and get outside to enjoy some fresh weather.
If you’re new to exercising, just a walk around the block can introduce you to the benefits of exercise. Running will burn even more calories, and if you’re not a runner, you can build up by alternating walking and running.
Be consistent by scheduling your workouts at the same time every day, such as first thing in the morning, or after dinner.
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Follow Along with a DVD
If walking or running isn’t your thing, you may find what you’re looking for in an exercise DVD. DVDs can range from traditional aerobics, to dance, to yoga and more.
There’s something for everyone and you just need to find the style that feels fun to you. If you’re looking to save money, check out thrift stores or garage sales for cheaper versions.
Your library may also have a good selection of workout DVDs, which allows you to easily change up your routine.
When exercising indoors, make sure to wear supportive shoes or athletic kinesiology tape for running to support your ankles, knees, and to protect yourself from other injuries.
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Quick Challenges
Maybe you don’t want to commit to an hour-long workout every day. You’re not the only one. Instead, look for quick challenges you can do on the fly.
For example, you can usually find 10-minute exercise videos on YouTube that will focus on working a specific muscle group.
Alternatively, some challenges ask you to do calisthenics during the commercials of your favorite TV shows. Pinterest is a good source for these types of ideas.
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Exercise Equipment
If you’re drooling over the state-of-the-art exercise equipment you’ve seen advertised on TV, but aren’t too excited about the $1,000+ price tag, don’t despair.
You can often find barely-used equipment on Craigslist, or at a thrift shop. Sometimes people are just giving them away.
Once you have a treadmill, stationary bike, or elliptical machine in your house, set it up where you can watch TV while you exercise, then make a rule that you can only watch Game of Thrones, or Orange is the New Black while you’re exercising. Getting in shape suddenly seems a lot more appealing.
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Building Muscle
Of course, building stronger muscles is a key piece to the puzzle. Many people like to stick with the basics, like squats, lunges, sit-ups and push-ups.
These body-weight exercises require no equipment, so they won’t cost you a penny. If you want to up the ante a bit, though, look for some extra equipment.
Hand weights, resistance bands, or a balance ball will likely cost you less than $20 brand new, but can be even cheaper when you find them used.
If you start asking around, you might even find a friend who has something collecting dust in the closet.
Consistency will probably be the biggest factor in your weight loss efforts. Whatever type of exercise you choose to do at home, schedule your workout times and plan to follow through.
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