It's that time of year when everyone is running around panicking because soon they'll have to wear shorts or a bathing suit. Here are some tips to get yourself in shape without costing a fortune. Gyms
Gyms are horribly expensive but usually have summer deals. If you are determined to join a gym, go in several of them and see if they will give you a week's pass for free (most places will do this). You can accumulate free weeks of free gym time if you visit 3-4 gyms in your area. Afterwards, let the gym know you're low on funds and that you want the best deal. Compare. Sometimes if you tell one gym the other gym is going to give you a better deal, they'll make their price better. It can happen! So wheel and deal with gyms otherwise you'll end up spending a small fortune. Also check out the "Y" and University Gyms. Those usually have decent summer rates.
Frugal Exercise
If you decide not to join a gym but still want to get fit:
* Buy or acquire a decent bike (try freecycle.org). Bike to work, bike to school. Bike to the store and carry your groceries. It's a simple workout
* Walk everywhere. Walk as many places as you can. Climb stairs instead of taking the elevator.
* Do more chores around the house that require lots of physical work (vacuuming, scrubbing, etc.)
* Garden! Take an hour after work to pull weeds, shovel some dirt and perhaps mow the lawn.
* Fill up bleach bottles with water and use as weights. The bottles have a good handle!
* Buy a used or free treadmill, stationary bike or elliptical. Set it up at home and do 30 minutes 3 times a week. Definitely cheaper than going to a gym!
