There are lots of reasons to improve your health. Not only do you feel better, it can also help a lot with your confidence, and helps you avoid common ailments and illnesses. But the health industry is worth a lot of money, and it often feels like you have to spend a lot of cash just to get fit. However, this is a myth. There are ways to get into shape and smash your goals without going broke.
- Set up a home gym
Gym memberships are expensive, and once you sign up, there’s often a minimum term, so you’re stuck paying for it month after month. A better option is to work out at home, and if you have the space, a home gym is ideal for working out on a budget. It’s worth investing in one good quality piece of cardio equipment, such as a Johnson’s treadmill, and you can then simply buy a small weight bench or some free-weights to get a balanced exercise plan.
It’s worth balancing the cost of exercise equipment with the cost of a gym membership. You’re likely to find that buying your own equipment is the equivalent of one or two years at the gym, and since it’ll last longer than that, it’s a cheaper option long-term.
- Eat a balanced diet, not a faddy one
Diet is just as important as exercise to your overall health and can help you reach your fitness goals.
Let’s face it, there are lots of diet providers out there. There are plenty of plans where the food is all prepped for you, and diet books that encourage you to go out and spend lots on healthy food. But ultimately, this isn’t necessary to stay healthy.
Firstly, avoid any faddy or crash diets, especially those that use shakes and bars. You should look at eating inexpensive wholesome foods such as:
- Seasonal fruits and vegetables – look out for special offers and load up on stuff that’s in season as it’ll be much cheaper
- Lean meats – if you can’t afford expensive cuts, invest in a slow cooker and make delicious, inexpensive meals
- Grains and beans – grains such as lentils are an excellent source of protein, while being low in fat too
- Wholemeal carbs – switch to wholemeal bread, brown rice and brown pasta. It costs a little more, but you’ll need less to feel full
You’ll soon find some budget recipes that you enjoy, so can save money while fuelling up for your workouts.
- Batch cook
Batch cooking is another great way to eat healthy on a budget. Buying things in bulk makes them cheaper per portion, so if you batch cook and freeze stuff, you pay less per meal. Best of all, you can have your own healthy supply of ready meals, so there’s no need to call for a takeaway after a long day.
- Take vitamins
Again, there are a lot of expensive vitamin brands out there, and even vitamin subscriptions, but taking supplements doesn’t need to be expensive. Vitamins are important to your health and can help you fill in any gaps from your nutrition. While you should aim to get vitamins via your diet, a multivitamin will keep things balanced.
Look out for inexpensive, own-brand vitamins in supermarkets and pharmacies. These are usually very cheap, but if you compare them to expensive brands, they have exactly the same ingredients. You’re just not paying for the fancy packaging and marketing!
- Head outdoors
When the weather is suitable, you should try to head outdoors as much as you can. While a lot of people know that outdoor play is good for children, it’s also important for adults to head outside too. It can be good for their mental health, as well as giving them a dose of vitamin D, which is essential for your well-being.
Heading outdoors can also encourage you to exercise more! Why not take this chance to take a long walk or cycle? Make sure you wear sunscreen and light layers to stay protected.
- Meditate
Your mind is just as important as your body when it comes to overall health. Try some meditation to relax after a long day. Meditation is the natural way to clear your mind, and those who do it regularly say that it can relieve stress. If you often turn to things like junk food and alcohol to feel better in the evenings, then why not try some free meditation apps instead?
Getting healthier doesn’t have to cost a lot of money. You just need to keep things simple and avoid gimmicks. From expensive diet plans to gym memberships, it’s important to avoid throwing money at the problem and instead to find what works for you. You’ll soon find that your efforts pay off and you feel much more energetic.
