You don't need to break the bank in order to stay active. High-end gym memberships and expensive equipment may dominate conversations about health, but there are numerous ways to prioritise fitness without emptying your wallet.

If you are looking for affordable ways to exercise, consider the following tips to stay within budget. Some of the best ways to stay fit are completely free.

Embrace the Outdoors

The varied geography of Australia and its breath-taking natural beauty is a paradise for fitness lovers. The great outdoors offers you countless options to work out for free, like taking a stroll on the coastal walks or bush trails, jogging along Bondi Beach, hiking in the Blue Mountains, or even simply exploring your local park. You can do all this while soaking in the scenery, as well as fresh air and Vitamin D, which can work wonders in improving mental health.

Use What You Already Have

You don’t necessarily need specialised workout equipment; even household items can do the trick. For example, use a sturdy chair for tricep dips, a backpack filled with books for resistance training, or towels for sliding lunges on tiled floors. Some exercises require no equipment at all and yet are highly effective like push-ups, planks and squats. By being creative, you can build your very own home workout regime that can rival that of a professional gym without spending a penny.

Try Free Resources

Fitness in Australia is becoming increasingly accessible with the help of online resources. Many fitness enthusiasts share free workout videos on platforms like YouTube, TikTok and Instagram. You'll find all sorts of routines and levels of exercise, from yoga and Pilates to high-intensity interval training (HIIT). Similarly, fitness apps often provide free trials and basic plans where there are guided workouts and progress trackers.

Community Activities

Local councils and communities often organise free or low-cost fitness classes. These can range from Zumba, aerobics or Tai Chi in the local park. Keep an eye out for flyers or notices on the community boards or social media pages for any such schedules. Some areas might also have installed outdoor gyms in public places, giving you free access to equipment like pull-up bars, ellipticals and benches. These are a great way to stay fit while mingling with the community.

Reconsider Transportation

One very easy way to integrate fitness into your daily schedule is by thinking about how you get around. You can try cycling or walking to work, school or going to the shops. This way, not only will you stay active, you'll be able to save money on fuel and public transport. If these are not possible for you, you can incorporate small changes like parking your car further away than usual or taking the stairs instead of using the lift.

Invest in the Basics

If you choose to spend money, prioritise buying essential and versatile items. A pair of good-quality running shoes, a yoga mat or resistance bands can help you diversify your workouts. These items are one-time purchases that can provide you with long-term value.

Conclusion

Fitness doesn't need to be pricy. By being clever and creative about it, you can easily achieve your fitness goals while maintaining your savings. Fitness is more than gyms and fancy equipment; it's about incorporating movement and activity into your life, no matter your financial circumstances.