Getting in shape doesn’t have to be costly

Getting in shape doesn’t need to be expensive. In fact, time will give you a better return on your fitness investment than money. But for those of you who judge a workout by how much it costs, here’s the price of various exercise options along with pros a

RUNNING, WALKING, SWIMMING, CYCLING The only financial investment needed for these do-it-yourself workouts is gear. Keeping in mind that the general rule of thumb is to start with entry-level equipment, go to a sports-specific store for advice on what to buy. Most retailers will respect your desire to be price conscious in hopes that you’ll find success and come back to reinvest in better gear.

Entry-level costs by sport:

WALKING Shoes: $60-$100 Walking-quality socks: $20-$30 Workout clothing: $100 RUNNING

Shoes: $150-$200 Runner-quality socks: $20-30 Breathable workout clothing: $100-$200 SWIMMING

Competition quality bathing suit: $60-$80 Bathing cap: $10-$20 Goggles: $25-$40 CYCLING

Road bike: $900-$1,500 Helmet: $40-$100 Padded cycling shorts: $60-$100

Pros: The low cost of DIY workouts make them affordable without diminishing their effectiveness.

Cons: Coaching or instruction is not included in the cost, which means success is based on your ability to build and follow your own training programs.

Tips: Plenty of running, cycling, walking and swimming clubs provide weekly group workouts for minimal membership fees.

HEATHER HOWARD/THE ASSOCIATED PRESS/FILES At small fitness studios, specialty classes use equipment specific to the workout. Usually, the cost of the class reflects how much equipment is needed.