If your goals for the new year include getting into better shape, you’ll find plenty of free and low-cost ways to shed a few pounds without thinning out your wallet.
Start by looking for free fitness events and classes in your community. The November Project (www.november-project.com) holds free public workout events for people of all fitness levels in about two dozen cities across the country. Runners (and aspiring runners) can log some mileage during Parkrun’s free, timed and noncompetitive Saturday morning runs (see www.parkrun.us for locations). You’ll also find free workout classes at some retailers; Lululemon stores, for example, have free yoga classes.
If gym workouts are more your speed, take advantage of free trials to find a gym you like. Once you do, ask the manager if the club will match a competitor’s price. If you’re just starting a fitness routine, consider a month-to-month membership. You’ll usually earn a discount by signing a contract, but that won’t save you any money if you give up partway through the year.
From just $107.88 $24.99 for Kiplinger Personal Finance
Be a smarter, better informed investor.
Sign up for Kiplinger’s Free Newsletters
Profit and prosper with the best of expert advice on investing, taxes, retirement, personal finance and more - straight to your e-mail.
Profit and prosper with the best of expert advice - straight to your e-mail.
You may also be able to get someone else to foot the bill—or at least part of it. Many employers and health insurance plans (including some supplemental Medicare plans) offer discounts or reimbursements for gym memberships.
-
What Does Medicare Not Cover? Eight Things You Should KnowMedicare Part A and Part B leave gaps in your healthcare coverage. But Medicare Advantage has problems, too.
-
Five Ways to Save on Vacation Rental PropertiesTravel Use these strategies to pay less for an apartment, condo or house when you travel.
-
How to Avoid Annoying Hotel Fees: Per Person, Parking and MoreTravel Here's how to avoid extra charges and make sure you don't get stuck paying for amenities that you don't use.
-
Your Guide to Open Enrollment 2023Employee Benefits Health care costs continue to climb, but subsidies will make some plans more affordable.
-
Starting Today, Hearing Aids May be Sold Over the CounterHealthy Living on a Budget The White House estimates people will save nearly $3,000 by not having to get them through a medical professional.
-
Retirees, Here Are 3 Paths for Getting Vision InsuranceHealthy Living on a Budget Medicare Part B's restrictive coverage of vision care means you'll have to find a different route to get the right insurance. Here's some guidance.
-
How to Appeal an Unexpected Medical Billhealth insurance You may receive a bill because your insurance company denied a claim—but that doesn’t mean you have to pay it.
-
Amazon Prime Fees Are Rising. Here’s How to Cancel Your Amazon Prime MembershipFeature Amazon Prime will soon cost $139 a year, $180 for those who pay monthly. If you’re a subscriber, maybe it’s time to rethink your relationship. Here’s a step-by-step guide to canceling Prime.
