We know that summer bodies are a winter affair. But what if you're a mom on a budget?
With your body exhausted from baby chores round the clock and self-confidence strained from the unsightly layers of fat in all the wrong places, you are extremely likely to feel depressed in your own skin.
The cherry on top is the back-breaking gym membership or even more expensive fitness equipment! You feel distressed and hopeless, wondering if it's even possible to get fit without breaking the bank. BUT IT IS!
And it’s easier than you think! Just a few ingenious tricks and you are good to go!
We are giving you 11 ways that sure trim the extra fat and still cost next to nothing. They are bound to work if you stay determined.
How Can I Get Fit for Free?
Here are 11 top tips to get fit for free:
1. Hit the Streets
Turn your daily walk into a power walk, and you'll be sure to see results without spending a dime. Make sure to swing your arms and engage your core for maximum calorie burn.
Walking is an excellent form of exercise that doesn't require any equipment or special clothing. All you need are sneakers and a desire to get out there! You can go on short walks around your neighborhood, at school tracks nearby if the urge strikes, then even inside mall parking lots when trying not to buy everything displayed before walking away from those impulse purchases (although I hope this never happens).
Just remember, you are coming from a sedentary lifestyle, so you may not be able to sprint at a wonderful speed initially. Stay focused and determined, and never mind the slow start. Things will fall into their rightful place in time.
2. Join a Sports Team
If you're in for some healthy competition, consider joining a local sports team. There are usually options for every fitness level, so you're sure to find something that's perfect for you.
Joining a sports club is an incredible way to stay active without having to go out and pay for gym memberships.
The best part about these clubs? They're usually free! Plus, you get access to all sorts of facilities on campus, like gyms and courts - perfect if your timetable just isn't enough already (it never will).
3. Get Creative With Your Workout Routine
There are endless possibilities when it comes to working out at home. From yoga and Pilates to high-intensity interval training (HIIT), there's something for everyone. And the great thing about working out at home is that you can do it at any time, day or night. That means no more excuses about not having time to go to the gym!
Pick your mix, choose the exercises that are appealing to you and do them whenever you find the time. No need to rush around for a strict schedule.
4. Download Some Fitness Apps
With all the new fitness apps coming out, it's easier than ever to find a free workout or diet plan to help you maintain weight.
There are plenty of free fitness apps available to download on Google Play or the App Store. The best ones have diet plans, recipe tips, and trackers for running routes and cycling trips - so if you're looking forward to any exercise routine, these should be at the top spot in your search!
These apps are usually social media platforms where one can interact with friends and get that quintessential human interaction feeling that we so desire. You can let your friends know how they are doing regarding their fitness goals and receive some appreciation for yourself too.
This kind of positive interaction around health and fitness keeps you motivated, and obviously, you never run out of ideas with so many people onboard.
Related Article: How to Lose Weight Naturally
5. Count Your Steps
The best way to get in shape is simple - just move! And when you move, count. Knowing the count of steps you take every day is a huge motivation on its own. If you don't have money for an expensive fitness tracker or smartwatch to do so, don't fret because most phones have inbuilt step trackers.
These trackers are really helpful. Give them a try, even if you are skeptical in general. You'll see it makes a lot of difference to know (in figures) when things are slowing down.
Check throughout the day and see how many steps you take and if things are going downhill- like being seated at work all morning long (even though it might seem tempting).
Park near stairs whenever possible; use them instead of taking elevators when going out shopping etc. Even playing with kids can bump up those numbers quickly. Such habits seem small but make a big difference.
6. Utilize Social Media
Social media is a great way to find new workout ideas and connect with like-minded people who can help motivate you. Follow some of your favorite fitness bloggers or check out some famous hashtags.
Things have never been easier!
7. Invest in a Quality Water Bottle
Staying hydrated is essential for any workout regimen. Investing in a good water bottle will help ensure that you're drinking enough water throughout the day—and it'll save you money in the long run by eliminating the need for those pricey bottled waters at the gym.
Don't think I am asking you to buy one without strong reasons; a good, insulated water bottle stops you from devouring that calorie-loaded soda in times of extreme thirst, and obviously, the absence of water won't help.
8. Make Use of Free Trial Periods
Most gyms offer free trial periods, so take advantage of them! This is a great way to try out different types of workouts and see what you like before committing to a membership.
9. Find Workout Buddies
Working out with friends is not only fun, but it can also help keep you accountable (no more skipping those early morning runs!). So reach out to your friends and see if anyone else is looking to get healthy this year—you might be surprised at how many people are on the same journey as you are!
10. Love Your Body
I am numbering it at 10, but that doesn't mean it's not worthy of number one. This is the first thing you need to do when hopping onto a fitness journey; love your body. Make peace with who you are. Get rid of depression and anxiety.
A successful journey, no matter what it is you are trying to accomplish, starts with a positive outlook. Being negative about your body is no motivation at all. Just practically start your journey towards losing weight. Also, don't be around people who dampen your spirits with their negative remarks.
11. Accept the Setbacks
Accept that there will be setbacks—and learn from them!
Any journey toward better health will have its share of bumps in the road. The important thing is not to let these setbacks discourage you; instead, view them as opportunities to learn and grow. After all, even Olympians have bad days —it's how they respond afterward that makes all the difference.
FAQs
1. How do the Japanese lose weight fast?
Japanese use a special breathing exercise to lose weight fast.
Here's How They Do It:
Step 1: Stand up straight, pushing one leg forward and keeping the other back
Step 2: engage the butt as you transfer your body weight on the leg at the back.
Step 3: Inhale slowly for 3 seconds, lifting your arms above the head.
Step 4: Exhale for 7 seconds, even forcefully and try to strain all your muscles.
Repeat as many times as possible for 2 to 10 minutes. This exercise doesn't just build muscle, but it improves metabolism and energy levels too.
Japanese believe that oxygen intake, as we inhale, breaks down fat in the body. The more oxygen we take in, the higher our chances of losing fat naturally. Exercising muscles during workouts help to engage them and consequently strengthen them.
2. How can I eat clean and lose weight on a budget?
Here are a few tips to help you eat clean, avoid the junk, and lose weight while keeping a hold on your wallet.
- Avoid Processed and Packaged Foods, including sodas, crackers, cookies, and candy.
- Increase Water Intake.
- Buy in Bulk. You'll be given good discounts, and I can vouch from my personal experience that they last longer.
- Consider Frozen Vegetables as they are generally more budget-friendly and are just as nutritious as fresh. This may seem counterintuitive, but that's the truth. They have all the nutrients saved up in them and still cost a lot less. Not to mention, they are easy to use because they are already cut in the best shape possible.
- Wait for Protein to Go on Sale. A lot of the time at the night or end of the week, they will mark meat for 20-50% off. Pick up as many as you can and freeze them for later use.
- Make Your Own Toppings. You can control the ingredients this way and possibly create low-fat, low-sugar, and low-carb dressings for your food.
- Spend Time on Meal Planning. Each week, you should spend some time planning your meals consciously. On the spot can really detract from you.
3. How can an unmotivated person lose weight?
- Eat foods that hydrate you.
- Wake up and eat protein.
- Give the sweatpants a break.
- Rearrange your fridge.
- Pony up for the pre-portioned snacks.
- Lowball your exercise routine to start.
- Set a goal that has nothing to do with your weight.
- Stop doing workouts you hate.
Conclusion
Moms always put their families first—which means they often sacrifice their own health and well-being in the process. But getting fit doesn't have to break the bank; there are plenty of ways to get healthy on a budget. Check your options; there are plenty of free ones. By utilizing some or all of these tips, anyone can join together in their quest for better health —all while saving money!
