How to Exercise on a Budget

You don't need a gym membership or pricey personal trainer to get into shape. Use everyday objects or the great outdoors to burn calories and improve overall health and fitness.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Explore your neighborhood. Take a walk or ride your bike. Meet your neighbors, enjoy the fresh air and burn calories at the same time! Many cities have hiking trails as well.
2. Raid your pantry. Use soup cans or soda bottles as free weights to do bicep curls, shoulder raises and other arm exercises.
3. Use your furniture. A sturdy chair or bench is handy for tricep dips and a sofa serves as a great foot anchor for crunches.
4. Take the stairs. Walk or run up and down your stairs or use them to stretch your calf muscles.
5. Hit the mat. A standard exercise mat costs about $20, and you can use it for push-ups, stretching, yoga or core exercises.
6. Surf the web. Search online for a variety of in-home workouts ranging from kickboxing to yoga and strength training.
7. Just move! Run in place, do jumping jacks or put on your favorite music and dance around the house.

Tips & Warnings

• Always consult a physician before beginning a new fitness routine.