Drop Pounds without Spending Too Much
There seems to be some kind of unspoken connection between fitness and finance in the UK. On one hand, the stress of debt can manifest itself physically and comfort eating can often be a coping mechanism for financial worries. On the other hand, our desire to drop a few pounds can lead us to spend far too many. So, the stress of debt can have you piling on the pounds and hitting the gym can have you spending them. If your debts are building up, talk to an advisor at Debtsolver rather than turning to the biscuit box.
Regardless of what the gym membership adverts would have you believe, getting in shape needn’t actually cost anything. It’s great for your mental as well as physical health. The stigma of bad debt can have a profound effect on your self esteem and a few sit-ups, press-ups and squats can really make you feel better. Exercising releases endorphins, the naturally occurring chemical that makes us feel good. Much like dealing with debt though, taking the first step towards a happier, healthier routine can be difficult.
The idea of pounding the pavement might not be appealing but it’s a great way to get fit and it doesn’t cost anything. Of course, if running really isn’t your thing, you could always try cycling. Don’t let the thought of buying a bike put you off; it can be done cheaply and easily through the Government’s Cycle to Work scheme. This programme will allow you to pay off your brand new bike from your pre-tax salary. You just have to use it for your commute, which means that you’ll be getting in shape wile you cut out your travel costs.
Although we would recommend that you take full advantage of any free ways of getting fit first, you may feel that a gym membership is an affordable addition to your monthly budget. Any such expenditure should be carefully planned and you should only enter into it if it’s reasonable. If you can afford it and you’re sure you’ll make the most of a gym membership, shop around first. Your local council will often offer excellent facilities at a fraction of health club rates.
If the facilities are poor and you can find a good deal, consider joining a private gym. As you should with any contract, be sure to read the small print thoroughly before you sign up to a gym membership. You should have shopped around and examined all of the facilities at your disposal. Once you’ve found the gym you like, at a rate you like, be sure to get some free tours and make them woo you. After all, they’re trying to sell you a membership so make them work for it. If that means haggling for a reduced joining fee or even waiving the joining fee, then it’s worthwhile.
Consider how it will be to live with the membership too. You may be in awe of the fabulous facilities but if the gym’s not convenient enough, you’ll not go as often as you want, or as often as you’re paying for. If you don’t go, you’ll need to know if there’s a cancellation fee and before you sign up, find out if there’s a minimum contract term.
It’s always a good idea to stay fit and healthy but you should always look to shed those extra pounds while spending as few as possible.
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