It’s once again time to set our resolutions for the New Year. Health and fitness goals are always popular choices, topping surveys in most years. It makes sense—after overindulging during the silly season, many of us start looking for ways to bounce back in January!
No matter what your New Year’s resolution is, the cost of improving oneself can quickly add up. Here’s a look at the price associated with fitness goals, as well as money saving strategies to help you stay on track.
The gym: Everyone’s first stop
Joining a gym is typically the first step people make in their quest for fitness. Access to different types of equipment, classes and personal trainers can help you create a plan, stay motivated and have someone you’re accountable to.
However, these perks come with a price tag. Gym memberships can range from cheap (from $10.95 a week at many chains) to very, very expensive (nearly $4000 for a 12-week package at luxury boutique gym). Some memberships do not include group classes, meaning extra charges each time you book.
There are also fees associated with gym memberships that can raise the overall cost. Joining and cancellation fees are common. Admin and credit card payment fees can also be added on during sign up and each month when the payment is processed.
Fitness on the cheap
However, exercising can be a low- or no-cost endeavor. Walking and running are as easy as stepping out your front door. Free running clubs can provide motivation, support and company. Practiced swimmers can take a dip in a lake or the ocean.
Local community centres often charge very little to use their facilities and to join fitness classes they run. You can also access free workout channels on YouTube. With just your body weight and the right technique, you can get a full body workout at no cost.
Basic equipment can help boost your efforts for a reasonably small investment. A new set of dumbells can range from around $5 up to $50, depending on the weight chosen. Resistance bands can cost as little as $20, and skipping ropes around $12 to $40.
For those looking to make a bigger commitment, there are ways to save here as well. Online classifieds sites often have listings for used treadmills, ellipticals, weight sets and more. Boot camp-style fitness classes often run specials in January, and can be an affordable alternative to sessions with a personal trainer. You can also take advantage of free gym trials before making a longer commitment.
Staying motivated
Whether you decide to join a gym or sweat it out at home, keeping any resolution for longer than a couple months can be difficult. But, following a few guidelines can set you up for long-term success.
- Be realistic. Choosing an unattainable goal is a surefire way to set yourself up for failure. Instead of vowing to work out three hours every day, aim for hour long visits 2-3 times each week to start.
- Enlist a buddy. Tell family and friends about your goals, and ask for their support and encouragement. Chances are, one or more of them will share your resolution and you can motivate each other!
- Track your progress. Keep a diary of your successes, both short- and long-term. If your aim is to lose 15kg, focus on losing the first five. Note your progress, and reward yourself for each 5kg lost.
- Reward yourself. As long as it doesn’t contradict your fitness goals, treating yourself after achieving each goal is an effective way to keep your resolution going. Rewards could include new clothing, a movie night with friends or a weekend trip.
- Keep trying. It may not come as a surprise that only 8 per cent of people actually keep their resolutions.1 However, don’t quit the first time you slip up. Start over, and keep starting over, until it sticks!
What are your New Year’s resolutions? How do you stay motivated? Share your strategies for success with our Facebook community.
1. Forbes, Just 8% of People Achieve Their New Year's Resolutions. Here's How They Do It.
About Author: Momentum Life is a leading provider of Life insurance and Funeral insurance in New Zealand.
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