As always, losing weight or getting fit and healthy tops the list of resolutions for a new year. We can expect that by next year, most of us will have failed. Some research estimates that only 8 to 12 percent of goal setters are successful.
While it’s always good to think positive, when it comes to money, it also pays to be realistic. Before you sink a fortune into pricey gym memberships, consider these lower-cost ways of meeting your fitness goals.
Gym memberships
Freebies: This is high season for gyms in terms of registering new members. Take advantage of the free trial passes many of them offer and road-test a few different gyms for a month to see which one will work best for you before you commit. Trae Bodge, senior editor at RetailMeNot.com, says the best thing you can do is be honest with yourself. "Gym memberships so often go unused. They can be such a waste if you are not going to use them," she says.
Take a friend: Not only can a friend help motivate you, says Bodge, you also may be able to take advantage of 2-for-1 sign-up deals or negotiate group rates at smaller, independent gyms for two or more friends.
Search for deals: National and local gyms may offer coupons or deals on group-buying sites. GiltCity.com has recently offered local deals for Exhale Mind Body Spa, Brookhaven Fitness, The Bar Fitness and more. But remember, while it may be trendy to work out at a big-name gym, you also can save big by checking out the local YMCA, Bodge says.
Negotiate: Ask for unadvertised discounts or extras. You have more leverage when you buy as a group and/or pay for a membership in full. This is also a better strategy at independent gyms with the flexibility to make special offers, Bodge says. Ask for realistic discounts or extras like free personal training sessions, towel service or nutrition planning.
DIY fitness
DVDs: There are fitness DVDs for every type of workout, but some of the most popular ones can cost $60-$120. Not sure you'll stick with it? Shop for DVDs at garage sales or get free workout videos online. Consumer expert Andrea Woroch recommends BodyRock.tv for high-intensity interval training or YogaDownload.com. You also can organize a DVD swap with friends to get something new, she says. If you buy at retail, be sure to search for coupons first.
Also be aware of "hidden costs" of DVD workouts. Some may require equipment such as weights, stability balls or resistance bands. Check out sites such as Bodge's favorite, Collage Video, which take the guesswork out of buying fitness videos by offering detailed descriptions and reviews.
Equipment: From treadmills to hand weights, you can find discounts on fitness equipment, but there's no need to create a state-of-the-art gym in your basement. Woroch notes that even investing in a simple, basic scale can double your weight loss.
Gear: Buying new workout gear can motivate you; just don't spend a fortune on it. Target, Old Navy and discount stores such as T.J. Maxx offer some workout gear at prices 50 percent lower than specialty athletic stores. Now through early February, search for big discounts on cold weather workout gear, Bodge says, and avoid pricey extras like moisture-wicking and compression garments.
If you must have high-end gear, join loyalty clubs at sports retailers like REI and Dick's Sporting Goods that offer discounts, cash back or points on purchases.
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