Getting fit and saving money
Year-after-year the top new year’s resolutions are eating healthy, getting fit and saving money. We are here for all of them; plus giving back and taking care of our planet! Before you sign-up for a new membership check out the top rated exercises for getting fit.
Walking: Walking is the top rated exercise because it’s simple, accessible and effective. The average calories burned varies by pace, longevity and the mass the the walker; but the none the less it’s proven to trim the fat. Start with 30 minute walks 3-4x a week and increase over time as your build up your fitness level.
Jogging or Running: Like walking, jogging or running can be done anywhere. Studies show that jogging and running burn twice the calories of walking and burn fat especially belly fat. Jogging, about 4-5mph, and running, 6pm or faster, can but tough on some people joints so investing in a good running shoe, running on a softer surface or treadmill can be helpful. Getting started? Try 20-30mins 3-4x a week.
Cycling: We love cycling here in the PNW! Many cities have created bike lanes to create safe cycle commuting, buses have racks and many residential areas are popping up with bike repair stations. Cycling gives you all the benefits of running or jogging without the impact on your joints! Need we say more?
Weight Training: Lifting weight doesn’t mean you have to look like a body builder, but if that’s your thing - respect! Weight lifting is shown to burn calories like walking with the added benefiting of strengthening muscles. We talk a lot about core strength for many reasons especially because a week core leads to poor posture, lower back pain and muscle injuries. Especially for postpartum recovery which can takes months! Stick to it, even 10-15mins 3x a week can make a huge difference.
Interval Training: This one takes the cake - literally - it is shown to burn around 25% more calories than running or jogging. Interval training is a combination of short intense burst of exercise coupled with resting periods. No getting bored with this one! Mix up your fav exercises with running and rests for quick intense caloric burn.
Swimming: Swimming isn’t just for hot summer days! This full body exercise is great for burning fat and improving flexibility. While not everyone has access to a pool or body of water, if you do this gravity defying exercise is great for people with joint pain.
Yoga: This popular exercise didn’t make our list for it’s caloric burn value but for is holistic benefits. Yoga is known for reducing stress, improving mindfulness and being super accessible. You can take a moment to break downward dog just about anywhere and give your back a good stretch. Plus like Starbucks there are yoga studies on almost every block and thousands of online options.
So, the good news is all of these routines don’t require a fancy gym and need minimal equipment. So you can meet your fitness goals and save money. Roll our your yoga mat and pop on a Youtube video or strap on your fav tennis shoes and get in a walk/run.
So is investing in a gym membership a good use of your money? There are certainly pros and cons to having a membership:
PROS:
professional support
wide variety of equipment
gym buddies
no laundry (love fresh warm towels)
accountability to get the most bang for your buck
CONS:
travel time to the gym can become an excuse
wait time on popular equipment
crowded spaces (not great for social anxiety)
long-term financial commitment; some gym makes it real pain to cancel