In Bermuda, working out can become quite expensive.

Even though it’s a healthy habit, gym memberships and personal trainers can be pricey, especially if you overpay for a gym membership you don’t even use!

I know many of us want to stay healthy and in shape this summer. Let’s look at some ways to help you work out without breaking the bank.

Walk, run or hike outside

This is not the most creative option, however, outdoor exercise is the perfect way to work out for free. Using apps like Map My Fitness can help you find a good walking or running route or exercise routine. You can also fit in some extra steps throughout the day by parking further away from any errand location or by taking the stairs and leaving the office for a mid-afternoon walk.

Find your favourite music or download a podcast to push you along your routine. If you are feeling social, grab a buddy and use the time to catch up.

Join Outdoor Classes

If you enjoy group training, outdoor classes are a fabulous option. There are classes that offer quarterly, monthly and weekly fees at a low cost. Shop around and find the class that suits your budget, fitness level, schedule and personality! Outdoor group classes typically range from about $15 to $20 per class. Indoor gym classes begin at about $25-plus per class.

Take Advantage of your employer’s wellness campaigns

When thinking about our health benefits, everyone immediately thinks about their insurance plan. We normally also think about our deductible or doctor’s visit co-pay. However, health benefits definitely go beyond that.

Many employers and health insurance providers offer preventive health incentives. Gym memberships or discounted rates, yoga classes in the park and free personal training are wellness initiatives that many companies offer for their staff. If people exercise more often, fewer will have expensive medical challenges down the road. That’s the motivation behind preventive options in the workplace.

Look out for free workouts

Bermuda has a load of options for fitness. There are even trainers that offer free workouts regularly. I have even heard of a donation-based class. These events are great for saving money for classes down the road. You also have an opportunity to meet others desiring to save just like you. If you’re not sure what is available, research “free classes” on Facebook or other social-media sites.

Exercise at home

You don’t need a freshly designed home studio to work out. All you need to start is your doctor’s approval to exercise, a mat or towel, a couple of water bottles or cans and the internet. Start by Googling beginner workouts, beginner body weight workout or water bottle workouts. You may already have resistance bands and light weights. Having these items at home can push you to squeeze in a workout in the mornings or after work. Whatever you do, don’t forget to stretch!

Find a personal trainer

I saved this for last as this isn’t necessarily the most thrifty option. However, if you have any injuries or health conditions you may need to hire a personal trainer. If this is the case you may want to reallocate those funds you once used to go out to eat during the week. (Tally them up – a week of meals can add up to more than $100 even without alcohol.) One meal out could cost the same as two to three personal training sessions.

To lessen your cost even further, you could consider buddy or group training, basically half the cost or less of a private session.

Just remember your budget doesn’t have to hinder your workout routine. You can still workout within your budget and save for a rainy day too!

Find the budget friendly workout for you and B-Active For Life!

Betty Doyling is a certified fitness trainer and figure competitor with more than a decade of experience. Look for B. ActiveForLife on Facebook