GET FIT WITHOUT A GYM MEMBERSHIP
You don’t need a personal trainer or a pricey leisure centre to shape up this summer. Here are the best ways to work up a sweat – without breaking the bank
Boosting your fitness needn’t cost a fortune. Abigail Yearley, spokesperson for Topcashback.co.uk, says, “Gym memberships can be extremely expensive, with some coming in at over £100 a month. However, there are ways to avoid pricey contracts – and find a simpler route to getting in shape.”
TRAIN FOR FREE
Make the most of the warmer weather and get outside – some parks have fitness equipment that you can use for free. “Taking advantage of the great outdoors is the cheapest way to get fit,” says Abigail. “Whether you take up running in the park, or simply walk more, it does the job and costs nothing.” If you’re a running novice, try the free Couch To 5K app for a motivation boost; if you’re aiming to walk more, download the free Active 10 app. Experts say a daily 30-minute walk will boost your mood, reduce your waistline and slash your risk of Type 2 diabetes.
YOUTUBE IT
“There are plenty of exercise bloggers and fitness routines available online for free that you can try at home,” says Abigail. BEFIT (find them on Youtube) is a one-stop shop for fitness and health, with workouts from top trainers, which feature everything from five-minute tutorials to sixweek programmes. Or check out Blogilates, run by Cassey Ho, for her colourful videos that making working out fun. Popsugar also have loads of workouts on their Youtube channel, from boxing to Pilates.
BAG A BARGAIN DVD
If you prefer the guidance of a personal trainer but can’t afford to pay for one, try a fitness DVD. “They usually cost about £10, but it’s worth checking Amazon or your local charity shop, as you can often pick up them for just £1”, says Abigail. Don’t be fooled into thinking you can’t get a good workout in your front room – pick up a Jillian Michaels or Davina Mccall DVD and you’ll see what we mean! If you can, have a few to rotate so you don’t get bored – or swap with friends.
APP-LY YOURSELF!
There are loads of great apps for living-room workouts. Try Seven – it’s packed with different circuits that last just seven minutes. Or you can do more than one circuit, to make the workouts last longer.
PICK PAY AS YOU GO
If you want to join a gym, find out who offers the best deals. “A lot of gyms run offers throughout the year, including no joining fees,” says Abigail. Follow your local gyms on Facebook to keep up-to-date with their special offers. And, if you can’t go regularly, opt for a “pay as you go” option. “Payasugym offers access to gyms all across the UK on onetime or 10-session contracts,” Abigail says. “And you can get further value by buying through Topcashback.co.uk, which offers 15.75 per cent cashback.”