Lets face it ladies: we all don’t roll in the dough, money doesn’t grow on trees, and not everyone can keep a clean conscious while marrying for a bank account. A lot of us are on a budget; spending time to allocate what part of each paycheck pays for what expense. I’m assuming (well…hoping) that a fitness routine is included somewhere between the “want” and “need” sections of that to-pay-for list.
Health and fitness does not need to break your bank account. A personal trainer might not necessarily be the right choice, nor is that $20 a class hot yoga studio you’re dying to go to; heck- you don’t even need a gym membership! Depending on your exercise level and ability to stay committed to an unsupervised workout regimen, physical fitness can be achieved right from your living room floor.
Ladies, all you need is a little guidance! That’s where I come in. I understand firsthand that we can be expensive; while results are almost 100% guaranteed, a lot of people just can’t afford it. I’ve helped friends, family members and potential clients find a fitness routine that works for them- usually in the comfort of their own home! Peruse my tip list and see what suggestions might fit your needs.
All of what you see below I have either personally followed, learned about from a friend, or have suggested to someone else and received positive feedback from.
1. Online Program.
This is listed as #1 for a reason. Go Super Sisters, Tone It Up, and Blogilates are my top 3 favorite training websites to use. All are created by females, for females. Their websites and Instagram accounts are chock full of free information. Yes, free! All you need to do to gain access is provide your name and email address. From recipes, to exercise tips, to message boards, these sites sometimes even offer free monthly training calendars. Best of all is the empowering system formed from these supportive female databases: find success stories and FAQ’s to remind you are not alone in your journey.
2. Fitness Websites.
If you don’t mind the increased number of emails, a general fitness site can be a great place to find information. Think magazines: Women’s Health, Prevention, Fitness, Shape, Oxygen- all are female oriented and free to sign up for.
a. Daily tips. I receive “Women’s Health Daily” emails. Every 24hours a new piece of advice, a new recipe, or a new set of exercises is sent your way. Or you can try the “You Do You Yoga” for a 30 day video challenge that features a new yoga practice to be worked on every day.
3. OnDemand.
If your TV providers happen to be xfinity, then you have access to OnDemand. Its not just a database of movies and premium channels, they have an entire Fitness workout video section. From 10 minute express workouts, to Barre classes, to Kickboxing videos, there is a variety to choose from. Either choose from the free section or the buy to own, prices are kept under $10.
4. Cheat the System.
Most gyms offer a free one day or even a one week trial pass. In college I legitimately “signed up” for every facility in the area and virtually worked out for free for over a month. Cut corners, gym hop, and make the most of that free stuff out there ladies! Your wallet will thank you.
5. Equipment.
As a self proclaimed Maxxinista I’m obviously going to tell you to go your local TJMaxx and raid the fitness section. From yoga mats, to dumbbells, to exercise balls, bands and even kettlebells- they have it all. All reasonably priced too! The assortment of workout clothes they have is pretty great too. If your loyalties are to Target then shop there! They have great workout gloves, sports bras (my personal fave), and a few great fitness video DVD’s to choose from.
6.Make Friends.
Yep. Go out there and meet new people, or get your current friends off of the couch with you. For a lot of women, it is so much easier to stick to a routine when you aren’t alone, or have the support of someone else to guide you. Maybe you’ll even find a friend thats a personal trainer! As the “healthy friend” I’m constantly giving tips to those around me, and find that friends and family turn to me for advice with anything fitness related. If your potential friends are anything like me, they’ll take the time to talk with you about it, and love every second of it.
So go out there! Choose one or all of the above suggestions I’ve just laid out for you ladies! Everyone has the desire to be fit. Find your spark, a slice of determination, and watch your commitment to a leading a healthy lifestyle take hold. It all starts with you.
