Getting into shape and leading an active lifestyle is usually one of the top five goals people set at the start of every new year. There is no shortage of ab challenges, squat challenges, and who knows what else challenges are popping up on my social media timelines right now. At every turn there’s someone declaring how this will be the year they get in the gym and drop the weight.

Being active, however, doesn’t have to mean a lot of time and money spent in a gym. We’ve put together a short list of ways to get fit on a budget to keep your waistline and your wallet happy!

Walking

There’s nothing like a good walk or jog to help get you moving and clear your head. When I worked at university, a co-worker and I would change into our workout clothes and walk around the campus on our lunch break. The total distance was about two miles or so, and we’d knock it out in 35 minutes! Walking truly is good for the mind, body, and soul! And it’s $Free!

Dancing

I love to dance! Dancing is a fun and quick way to get your heart rate up and burn some calories. Whether it’s Zumba, hip hop, or simply cranking up a workout playlist on your iPod. Dancing can help you feel so good, it doesn’t feel like you’re working out at all. What’s great is that all you need is 30-45 minutes, some space in the living and you’re good to go!

Jump Rope

This ain’t just for the kiddies! I learned from a fitness trainer that jumping rope can burn the same amount of calories as running an eight minute mile. You can find a decent rope at your local sportswear store, Target, and maybe even a toy store. They are an inexpensive, portable, and effective way to get into shape when you’re counting calories and pennies.

Put Together a Home Gym

Discount stores like Ross, Marshall’s and TJ Maxx are great for finding steals and deals on workout equipment. The have mats, dumb bells, DVDs, and a host of other workout equipment you can use to get a small home gym started. You can also find good deals on workout clothes, too.

Make Youtube Your Trainer

I have found several channels on Youtube that offer intense workouts, with little to no equipment, all for free (aside from the cost of the internet).  Some of my favorites are:

Fitness Blender

This is a husband and wife team that has TONS and I mean TONS of workouts available on their channel. No matter what your fitness goals or abilities are, there’s something there for you! Their content ranges from HIIT (High Intensity Interval Training) routines, to cardio, to abs, to strength training. You name it, they’ve got it!

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Keaira LaShae

Keaira does it all! She sings, dances, choreographs, and is a fitness instructor. Most of her videos are dance based and she has a fun personality without overdoing it. She keeps you motivated and encouraged during her routines.

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That’s it! Happy Sweating!

I hope you found this list helpful! It is my by no means comprehensive and let me be clear that I am not a fitness or medical professional. These are tips that have worked for me as an individual. Always make sure to consult with your doctor before trying any kind of fitness or exercise program.

BMWK, What do you like to do to stay fit and active?