Improving Your Health While on a Budget

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Regardless of what advertisers tell you, healthy living does not have to be expensive. With a little planning and preparation, you can improve your health without spending a fortune. The following outlines how to do so.

Fitness

Data shows that less than 25% of American adults get the recommended amounts of aerobic and strength-training exercise. There are low-cost exercises that you can do at home or outdoors. Many routines can be performed without equipment, but there is a variety of budget exercise equipment that you can purchase, including:

• Resistance bands

• Jump rope

• Yoga mat

Bigger equipment can often be found on sale or purchased secondhand. Check out yard sales and social media market pages.

If you want to join a gym, there are a few ways to save money. Compare membership prices at gyms near your home and work. Many employers offer a stipend for gym membership as part of a wellness program, so check your employee benefits. If you aren’t sure how often you will actually be able to make it to the gym, offer to pay per visit rather than a monthly fee.

If you have a condition, such as sciatica, that makes it more difficult for you to exercise, check out free physical therapy videos from Bob and Brad, and remember to always speak with your doctor before starting a new fitness regimen.

Nutrition

Another area where many individuals pursuing a healthy lifestyle worry about expense is nutrition. Although it is possible to spend hundreds of dollars every month on healthy food, a little planning can save you a lot. Swap fresh produce for canned and frozen alternatives. Not only are they cheaper, but they also last longer and are less likely to go to waste. Depending on the size of your household, there are many items that you may be able to buy in bulk to save money. When buying large quantities, purchase things you know you like and will consume before the expiration date.

Packaged foods and prepared meals are generally more expensive than raw ingredients. Find healthy recipes that you can cook yourself. If you appreciate the convenience of microwavable meals, prepare meals in bulk and freeze them in single-serve containers.

Finances

For many individuals, physical and financial health are interconnected in a variety of ways. When money is tight, you may be more anxious and not sleep well. When your financial situation improves, you have more money to spend on your health. Fortunately, it is possible to stick to a budget while making healthier choices.

In some cases, it may also be possible to monetize your healthy lifestyle. A wellness blog may supplement your income. If you want wellness to be a larger focus of your work life, consider opening a health-focused business. These are very trendy, so be sure to do thorough market research before investing much money. Find a niche that has not been overdone but is not so specialized that the customer base will be too small for success. A strong logo can solidify your brand identity. There are many online logo makers that can help you quickly and easily design the right image for your business; check into this online logo maker if you’re looking for one with great features.

The wellness industry is growing, and prices are rising for specialized food and fitness classes. However, if you stick to the basics and focus on your needs, you can save money while improving your overall health.