3 Ways to Save on Staying in Shape This Fall

Just because beach getaways have faded away along with the summer season, it doesn’t mean you have to give up on being fit and outside. Did you know it is possible to get and stay in shape while saving money?

Move Your Workout Outdoors

Change your scenery to rejuvenate your mind as well as your body. In many parts of the country, fall opens up some great outdoor adventures that will have you getting into shape without having to deal with the heat. And if you want to track your fitness, try installing an app on your phone to record your activities.

• Biking: You don’t need a top-of-the-line bike to get started. You can use what you have (provided it’s in decent condition) or score a great deal on Craigslist. Need some extra motivation? Check around to see if there are any cycling groups in your area. Here in Raleigh, a local brewery loves to sponsor weekly meet-ups. What better way to celebrate finishing 15 miles than with a cold pint of beer?
• Running/Jogging/Walking: With the leaves changing, you’ll have some beautiful scenes around you as explore your neighborhood and beyond. As an extra bonus, see if a friend will tag along!
• Canoeing/Kayaking: Looking for a way to bond and get an arm workout? Try exploring the waters in a canoe or kayak. Check around online or at your local recreation center to see if you can find a good deal on a rental.

Challenge Yourself and Others

Need some accountability or a way to get your friends involved? Try getting a band of friends to join you for a month-long challenge. You can either set individual goals for weight/fitness or create a group goal such as walking a certain amount every day. Stumped on who to ask? Try getting your co-workers to sign up and encourage one another to go for a walk or exercise during lunch hours. You’ll not only be more fit and productive, but you may discover a new buddy to add to your circle of friends.

My mother-in-law joined her co-workers for a weight loss challenge and several people made their goals over the course of the contest. A win-win for all involved.

Tailor Your Home Workout

If the weather isn’t cooperating or you just don’t want to have others watch you work out, you can stay at home and still get fit.

You don’t have to buy a lot of equipment or rent a stack of videos to get the workout you want and need.  You can use what you already have around your place (bicep curls with cans of soup, for instance) and those ratty gym clothes will be perfectly fine – no judgment!

If you want to mix it up, there are some great resources online that can help. Channels like FitnessBlender have hundreds of hours of content, including bodyweight workout, kettlebell, and circuit training for people of different fitness levels.

All the same payoffs as heading to the gym and you don’t even have to fight for parking!

Thoughts on Staying in Shape

I hope these ideas help you stay fit this fall without sacrificing your finances. I’m planning on getting back on the bike at least twice a week for a few miles and step up my strength training at home. What about you? What do you plan on doing this season?