![\"\"](\"http:\/\/www.110pounds.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/09\/no-excuses.jpg\" "\\"no-excuses\\"")
<\/a>You don’t have to spend a lot of money getting fit. Here are some alternatives and ways to save money:<\/p>\nFitness DVDs<\/strong><\/p>\n You don’t have to drop $20 on a new fitness DVD. The library offers a lot of DVDs and that’s free. Not only that, if you belong to Netflix check out their selection of workout DVDs. You can watch them Instantly or on disc.<\/p>\n Discount Workout Clothes<\/strong><\/p>\n If you haven’t explored stores like Ross, Marshall’s or Burlington Coat Factory I really recommend it. They all have sections of workout clothes and depending on the selections you can often get great finds! Many of my workout shirts came from Ross and I spent less than $15 on them.<\/p>\n Explore Nature<\/strong><\/p>\n If you can’t afford an expensive gym membership, try moving your workout outside. There’s a million ways to get fit without spending money. Running can be done anywhere. Same with cycling. One tip: find a local high school track and run the track. They often times have stadium seating as well; run the stairs. If you don’t like running, do traveling lunges around the track. You’ll feel the burn immediately.<\/p>\n Hiking is an awesome workout. And it’s a workout that doesn’t feel like it’s a chore because you’re out in nature, exploring and seeing new sights.<\/p>\n Community Centers<\/strong><\/p>\n When I first started my journey to lose weight, I worked out at the nearby community center. They had a good pool, classes, a small gym and a basketball court. Granted, I had to share the pool with water aerobics, swimming lessons, family swim time, etc. It was always pretty crowded. But it was cheap! <\/strong><\/p>\n <\/strong><\/p>\n Mt. Scott Pool<\/p><\/div>\n Costco Deals<\/strong><\/p>\n When it was time to upgrade from the Community Center pool to a real gym membership I checked out the Coscto deals that were available. There was a stellar membership offer <\/a>for 24hr Fitness that I am lucky I got. It was a 2 year membership for like $300. If you break that down it’s like $12 a month! There’s no way a gym would normally offer that special. I scored.<\/p>\n Running Clubs<\/strong><\/p>\n The local running store in Portland (Foot Traffic<\/a>) hosts free daily group runs. They have different times and different locations where they meet. It’s a fantastic idea to get in a workout, meet new people, and discover the city.<\/p>\n Share Music<\/strong><\/p>\n I’m the type of person that needs music while I workout. When running I need fast-paced, upbeat music to keep me motivated when the run gets hard. Instead of spending a ton of money on iTunes downloads, try borrowing CDs from a friend and building your own library. Another tip: Pandora is free. You can create your own radio stations and mix it up when you get bored with your play-lists.<\/p>\n Take a Class<\/strong><\/p>\n If you belong to a gym already, utilize the classes they offer to members. They’re often free. If you don’t belong to a gym, check out the local Community College. They offer cheaper classes than a studio. Another option is to scour the local studios for deals. Many places offer introductory rates for new members.<\/p>\n One of my readers recently recommended this yoga studio: Hot Yoga for Life.<\/a> They offer a “10 class for $10” deal. The only catch is I would have to take all 10 classes within 21 days of purchasing it. Not too bad if you ask me! I’m definitely going to check it out.<\/p>\n<\/a><\/p>\n<\/a><\/p>\n<\/a><\/p>\n<\/a><\/strong><\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n