Health should be a right but living a healthy lifestyle can get expensive. Things like shoes, race entries, and gym memberships add up quickly. Here are a few tips for getting the most out of your fitness buck.
Races: From 5K to Marathon, just getting into a race can be expensive. Some 5K races go for $60 for a single entry – that’s about $2/minute of running for the average runner. You can save some cash by signing up early. Entry fees generally go up the closer you get to race day. Stick with the smaller/locally sponsored events vs. large big city races. They are often half the cost. Keep an eye on our Facebook page for info about race pricing and registration discounts.
Shoes: I can’t do much here – shoes are just plain expensive. I will say that an investment in quality is worth it when it comes to running shoes. You can score a good deal and the best fit at your local running store – check out Running for Kicks if you are in the area.
Free Money – $30 for $15 Groupon for Play It Again Sports
Fitness gear: Used is the way to go for things like dumbbells and certain fitness equipment. You could pay half the price vs. buying new. Check Groupon for discounts at places like Play it Again Sports for even more savings. If you can’t find what you’re looking for used, shop around and find it on sale. Sears often has pretty big discounts on fitness gear at different times throughout the year – look for clearance sales.
Why does better food cost more? There’s a reason why Whole Foods is also known as Whole Paycheck. Unfortunately, better food is usually more expensive. Sad but true. The good news is that Farmer’s Market season is right around the corner – find one near you. If you’re lucky enough to have a local health food store like American Health Foods in Oak Lawn, support it. Buying in bulk from Costco or Amazon is a solid bet too – Less than $15 for 3 lbs. of raw almonds? Yes, please.
$10 per month for a membership at Planet Fitness – Can’t beat that but you have to show up!
Gym memberships: These can range from $10/month to $100+ per month. I’m not a fan of contracts, but consider payment in advance if you are looking to get the best deal. Gym access for $10 per month is a no-brainer if you ask me… but you do need to show up and you do need to know what you are doing. Also check out Groupon for deals on fitness classes and boot camps. It’s an inexpensive way to try out a new gym or class before making a commitment.
Sometimes the best fitness is free. Walking, running, playing with your kids… anything that keeps you moving is a good thing.
And now for some musical therapy… I NEED to learn this riff!
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