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Workout at Home for Fitness - Burn Calories Not Cash
by Scott Gray

Description: A frugal and effective workout at home for fitness is possible. Utilize garage sales and online second hand sites for workout equipment bargains.

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So you want to lose a few pounds or gain some extra muscle tone, but you don't have a lot of dollars to burn. Don't let this small problem prevent you from getting fit. It is possible to effectively workout at home for fitness without spending a lot of cash, if any. Read on for effective frugal fitness tips:

* Cardio. Any weight loss or get fit program needs an aerobic workout to get your heart pumping and the calories burned. Try any of the following a minimum of three times a week to see a reduction in your waistline.

* Walking in fine weather is a free activity. A brisk walk is an excellent form of aerobic exercise and can be used as a warm-up for runs, bike rides or muscle resistance workouts.

* Jogging is another excellent way to exercise for free. You will notice a huge improvement in your fitness and weight if you incorporate several jogs or runs into your fitness program each week.

* Stairs can be used as an alternative to a costly StairMaster. Use the stairs in your house, work or a nearby park with a set of bleachers. Alter the speed that you go up and down and change the number of steps that you include in your step (ie:take bigger and smaller steps) in your routine. Not only will you burn calories and get your heart pumping but you will also improve the tone of your butt and legs.

* Skipping rope is a great alternative to running outside when the weather is bad. Borrow your child's or grab an inexpensive one. A skipping rope is a great way to get a good cardiac workout. If you run out of ideas on how to use the rope, visit your local library and borrow a book or DVD for extra inspiration.

* Exercise bikes can be a great way to melt away those pounds and improve your aerobic fitness. Exercise bikes are wonderful alternatives for those who are house bound or have an injury or joint problems. Recumbent exercise bikes are best for those with lower back problems as this style of bike forces you to sit correctly, as opposed to hunched over the handlebars. The best recumbent exercise bike will have magnetic resistance, and built in programs featuring heart rate, calories burned, and miles pedaled. The best exercise bikes to purchase from a cost effective point of view will be from garage sales or ex-display models from workout shops. By hunting around on the net you will probably be able to scout out some bargain exercise bikes as well.

* Chin ups can be executed on exposed ceiling rafters and doorways. Do you have a swing-set in your backyard or local playground that you can implement? It is possible to purchase relatively inexpensive door bars that are removable.

* Sit ups/ push ups are inexpensive exercises that can be done anywhere. Not only will you get a great workout it won't cost you anything.

* Core training with an exercise ball will provide a much more intense workout. Many households have exercise balls lying around from previous fitness campaigns. Otherwise you should be able to pick one up from about $20, some of which include workout routines for you to perform on the ball. Exercise balls can be used for sit ups, push ups and many other abdominal and back exercises.

* Inexpensive light hand weights can be made from large plastic milk containers and water storage vessels that have handles. These can be useful for those who are just looking for some light muscle tone in their arms.

* Library. Never underestimate the resources of your local library. Borrow some home workout DVDs and get your own program going. Read a few books to give you some ideas.

* Garage sales are an excellent way to pick up cheap workout gear and equipment that often only needs a dust off. Don't be put off by a few little scratches or surface dirt. Ensure the equipment is working correctly before you part with your hard earned cash.

* Online workout companies and other sites such as EBay can have fantastic bargains on workout equipment. Look out for end of financial year and closing down sales for the best prices.

* Local newspapers are always worth a look. Who knew your neighbor wanted to get rid of his running machine? A frugal and effective workout at home for fitness is possible. Utilize garage sales and online second hand sites for workout equipment bargains.

Scott Gray is currently a fitness enthusiast and freelance writer who enjoys providing health and fitness tips to consumers. He maintains a fitness tips web site where you can find information about getting in shape, losing weight and how to live a healthy life style.