How To Exercise Without A Gym Membership

Every year starts off the same, doesn’t it?

You make the steely resolution of turning over a new leaf, becoming a better version of yourself, wiping off those Doritos-crusted hands and hauling your butt off the couch to get into shape.

Then February rolls around, and you realise that you never signed up for that gym membership you had firmly told yourself you would apply for. And now, it’s too late. Or is it?

Despite what those flashy gym commercials want us to believe, there are plenty of fun ways to get fit without spending a ludicrous amount of hard-earned money on a gym membership.

1. YouTube workout videos.

Instead of abandoning your beloved laptop once you decide to get moving, use it to your advantage! There are loads of popular YouTube channels such as Blogilates, FitnessBlender, TheZeusFitness and BeFiT that are tailored towards achieving whatever your fitness goals are – whether it’s to burn fat, tone your abdomen muscles or even improve your flexibility.

2. Get outdoors.

Grab a bunch of friends, get a mini portable speaker and go for a hike at your nearest forest or hill. Armed with Barney Stinson’s ‘Get Psyched’ playlist, a water bottle and a trusty pair of sneakers, you can burn calories while having an awesome time with your buddies. Knowing that your friends are going through the exact same physical torture as you is somewhat comforting and motivating at the same time, right? At least you know you’re not the only one!

3. Fitness apps.

In the age of technology and the wonderfully-diverse App Store, you don’t have to shell out 30 bucks for a tedious workout DVD anymore. In fact, you can find a wide range of fitness apps that include workout videos with an interactive instructor and GPS tracking for runs, as well as a calorie and exercise tracker. Fantastic free apps such as Daily Workouts, Fitstar, Fitbit and Pocket Yoga can help you to monitor your progress, as well as your friend’s. Friendly competition, anyone?

4. Public courts.

Make the most of Australia’s sunny weather by organising a Sunday morning tennis match or basketball game. Most local parks have tennis, basketball and volleyball courts that are welcome for the public to use. Gather some friends, ask them to dig up any old equipment they might have collecting dust, and channel your inner Roger Federer or Serena Williams.

5. Join a sport.

Most unis offer a variety of exhilarating sports such as swimming, dancing, Pilates or boxing. The best way to get fit is to trick your body into thinking it’s not doing work, so what better way is there than to make a game out of working out? You’ll get your heart rate pumping, burn calories, meet new people and have an awesome time doing it.

These are just a few of my favourite ways to get fit when I’m on a tight budget, but I’m sure you will figure out what you enjoy the most. Have fun!

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