Getting in shape isn't always the most budget-friendly resolution, with gym memberships and equipment leaving you feeling like you're breaking the bank. However, there are plenty of ways you can get a proper workout without spending any money – we take a look at some of the best tips and tricks…
© Photo: iStockThere are easy ways to get fit without spending any money
Use weights from around the home
Weights are an important part of any workout, but there's no need to splash the cash on fancy equipment. Household items such as soup tins or bags of flour work just as well – weigh them beforehand to make sure they match what you're used to.
Follow fitness professionals on social media
Many experts and trainers are happy to share tips and short workout videos on social media for free. It's also worth following stars on Instagram such as Ellie Goulding or Khloé Kardashian who regularly give sneak peeks of their workouts and reveal the exercise routines they like to follow to stay toned and lean.
Download fitness apps
If you have a smart phone, there's an abundance of free apps that include daily workouts, pedometers, calorie counters and fitness plans. Simply choose the exercise you want to try and find an app that works best for you.
Use your furniture
Lots of the best exercises, such as tricep dips, can be done at home by simply using a sofa or chair. Line yourself up with an appropriate piece of furniture and lower your body weight using only your arms for an effective but free workout.
Stay motivated by recording progress
Write your goals on post-its and stick them on the fridge. Keep track of your body's transformation by taking photos or writing your weight loss goals and crossing them off as you achieve them. If you struggle to get going, keep an exercise plan somewhere you will see it – it will encourage you to meet your goals.
© Photo: iStockThere are plenty of ways to get an effective workout at home
Create a space for working out
Part of the attraction of the gym is that it’s a space solely dedicated for exercise. Try doing the same at home by having a room or corner that you always work out in.
Dig out your old skipping rope
A skipping rope is ideal for lots of different exercises. You can do cardio by simply skipping and jumping, plus it can be wrapped around sturdy objects and used for resistance training and stretching.
Get a friend to join you
If you're struggling to stay motivated when you're home alone, try working out with a friend. Not only will it help you stick to a routine and get you off the sofa, but it will also help you ignore distractions around the house.
Use the stairs
If you want to work out your leg muscles, step machines are a great option – but a flight of stairs can achieve the same effect. Put some music on and do steps to tone your legs.
Workout when you can
A simple example is the time you spend brushing your teeth – it's necessary at the beginning and end of the day, but can be time-consuming. Use the time to do some squats and you'll be feeling toned within weeks.
Don't splash out on expensive gym clothes
Dig out old clothes such as leggings or loose T-shirts that you no longer wear – as long as you're comfortable and can move freely, it doesn't matter what you wear, especially if you're exercising at home.
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