Low Cost Alternatives to Joining a Commercial Gym

Posted By elissa on Dec 29, 2010 | 2 comments

Thinking of making a fitness resolution for the New Year? More power to ya, although signing a long-term gym contract may not be the best first step. Sure, there are bargains around, but most commercial gyms aren’t cheap – and if you fall off the wagon (or simply don’t like the place), you end up paying for facilities that you’re not using. Not good.

That’s why I flagged this NYT article, “Burning Calories, but Not a Hole in Your Wallet“…

As the nation’s economic woes drag on, many people are rethinking their investments in pricey gym memberships and home exercise equipment. After all, the average health club membership is $750 annually, including sign-up fees and monthly dues. A treadmill for home use can cost upward of $1,000.

Many fitness buffs are finding that less expensive alternatives can be just as invigorating. “These days people realize you can burn the same number of calories for a lot less money,” said Beth Kobliner, personal finance expert and the author of “Get a Financial Life.” She added, “All kinds of programs have popped up postrecession that offer lower-cost ways to exercise.”

The alternatives mentioned range from joining the local Y or running/cycling club, DVDs, websites, following YouTube exercise vids, etc. If you’re just starting out, these are actually preferred strategies: save joining a gym until you establish a regular exercise habit.

I’d also add checking out your local Parks and Rec Department to the options mentioned in the article. When we lived in Ohio, the city (Kettering) maintained its own indoor gym(s) and running tracks. For a measly $120/year, residents could make unlimited use of the facilities (cardio room, machines/free weights and walking/running track). Nearby Washington Township also had its own gym facilities – not quite as extensive as Kettering’s but adequate, nonetheless.

Obviously, not all cities invest in the health of their citizens like this, but some do, so it’s an option worth looking into.