Are you keen to get in shape but worried about the cost of a gym membership? Don't let a lack of cash be a reason not to exercise, there are plenty of ways to get fit which don't involve spending a fortune. Read on for some for some cheap, healthy exercise ideas.
Walking
Walking is an excellent form of exercise for people of all ages and levels of fitness. Research shows that walking can help to reduce the risk of coronary heart disease, prevent osteoporosis, lower blood pressure and reduce cholesterol levels. Walking is also very effective at burning body fat, making it ideal for anyone who wishes to lose weight. To get the optimum health benefits from walking, you should build up to a pace that makes you slightly out of breath and keep going at that rate for at least thirty minutes.
As well as all offering numerous health benefits, another great advantage of walking is that it costs nothing to take part. The only equipment needed to get started is a pair of supportive shoes or trainers, which will ensure you stay comfortable and reduce the risk of injury.
Walking is ideal for anyone with a busy schedule as it can easily be integrated into your daily routine. Try walking to work instead of driving a couple of times a week, or go for a brisk walk at lunchtime to revitalise your body and mind.
Swimming
Many health and fitness experts consider swimming to be the best form of exercise there is. Swimming uses all the major muscle groups and can help build cardiovascular strength. Because swimming doesn't place any pressure on your joints, it is also ideal for pregnant women or anyone suffering from an existing sports injury.
Whilst swimming at a pool in a gym can be expensive, going for a swim at a municipal pool is usually an affordable alternative. Many local authority pools also offer season tickets or monthly passes at a reduced rate for local residents. If you are able to get out of the city, a host of free swimming opportunities open up during the summer. `Wild´ swimming in ponds, lakes and rivers has become very popular over recent years, with a number of books and websites created to help enthusiasts find the perfect spot for a dip. Swimming in the open air can be a liberating experience provided you don´t mind the cold and lack of changing facilities!
A trip to the seaside also provides plenty of opportunities for cheap and healthy exercise for all the family. As well as swimming in the sea you could try body boarding, canoeing, jogging or even surfing.
Get Gardening
Kill two birds with one stone by getting busy in the garden. Activities such as mowing the lawn, pushing a wheelbarrow and digging the vegetable patch all burn calories and fat. Gardening can also help build muscle, increase flexibility and strengthen bones. As well as having great physical health benefits, gardening can improve your mental health. Spending time outdoors interacting with nature has been proven to reduce stress and boost overall feelings of wellbeing, while exposure to sunshine is also known to relieve depression.
If you don't have a garden of your own, look for a `Green Gym´ in your area. Run by the British Trust for Conservation Volunteers (BCTV), green gyms offer the chance to improve your health and the environment at the same time by getting involved in conservation projects around the country. Check the BTCV website to find a green gym in your area.
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