5 Budget-Friendly Health and Fitness Tips for Busy People

Do you want to be a fitter, healthier version of yourself but feel like there’s never enough time or money to reach your goals? You have a busy schedule, and fitness products are expensive. You may feel like your ambitions are out of reach, here are some suggestions for simple, cost-effective ways you can adjust your lifestyle to accomplish your vision for yourself.

1. Make Your Workouts Portable

Mobile gyms allow you to work out anywhere, but commercial kits are pricey and may contain unnecessary equipment. If you travel for work or pleasure, you can still customize daily workouts by packing your at-home workout gear including resistance bands, a door strap, or an adjustable weight bar. Plus, many hotels offer fitness center amenities for your convenience, so you can stick to your fitness routine while traveling.

If your time is limited, you can still find creative ways to move your body such as renting a bicycle for touring or walking to business meetings. Depending on the walk score of your location – that is, how easy it is to walk to popular destinations like stores, coffee shops, and parks – you might be able to get fit simply by trading your car for a pair of sneakers.

Taking a daily stroll is also the ideal time to bond with your pup, especially if work is keeping you away from home. Invest in a sturdy harness and leash before heading out. When purchasing a dog harness, make sure you get the right size so your dog can’t wiggle out of it while remaining comfortable.

2. Take Up Meal Planning

When you’re feeling hungry and there’s nothing prepared in your refrigerator, you may be tempted to hit the nearest drive-through. Frequently consuming fast food is counterproductive to your health and fitness goals, so implementing a meal planning and prepping practice can help you stay on track. A few key tips for planning your meals include:

• Prepare foods you know you enjoy eating • Consume or preserve fresh foods early in the week

• Freeze soups or casseroles in single portions to defrost for a quick lunch or dinner

• Prevent boredom and burnout by planning a night out to dine with friends or family

Additionally, make sure you’re able to meet your hydration needs throughout the day with a Hydro Flask or large water bottle. By drinking plenty of water, you can maintain your natural energy levels and avoid cravings for caffeinated and sugary beverages.

3. Find an Accountability Partner

If you thought paying for a gym membership would motivate you to work out routinely, but you find yourself slacking more than sweating, you’re not alone. Whether due to lethargy, anxiety, or other reasons, many people struggle to exercise by themselves because there’s always an excuse. However, if another person relies on you for support, then you are more likely to stick to a daily or weekly plan. Find a friend, family member, or personal trainer who will provide encouragement and hold you accountable to your fitness goals.

4. Try Intermittent Fasting

Intermittent fasting refers to establishing an eating pattern to support a health or weight loss journey. By cycling between fixed periods of fasting and eating, you can decrease your blood pressure and stabilize your blood sugar. Additionally, you can improve your brain and body function. An easy way to start an intermittent fasting practice is to set a specific time to start and stop consuming food each day and avoid midnight snacking.

5. Relax Your Mind

Your personal wellness is not just about your nutrition and exercise regimens. Recent studies show a clear link between physical and mental health. Your mental strength is essential to setting goals, establishing healthy habits, and sticking to routines. When trying to do difficult things, it's essential to give your brain an outlet by setting aside time and space to relax and enjoy your hobbies.

You don’t need to sacrifice hours of your day or break the bank to become fit and healthy. Using these tips, you can create time-saving and budget-friendly habits to build a better you.

Achieve your fitness goals and get on track to healthy living with Jamme's Crunk Fitness. Try a class today!

Written by: Charley Sunday

"Charley Sunday understands that every home needs a strong foundation, both literally and figuratively. Charley created A Strong Foundation to help others create a space that meets their needs and helps their families grow. The site offers advice on how to focus on your family’s needs and desires — instead of keeping up with the Joneses or living up to society’s expectations."