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Working Out On A Budget

This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Exeter chapter.

We all want the perfect body. But whether you exercise to lose weight, gain muscle or simply improve your fitness, what are the ways to work out when strict student budgets leave us no room for a gym membership? Rather than giving up and settling on the sofa for Revenge re-runs, here are some simple ways to get moving without spending a fortune. No more need for pricey personal trainer sessions or costly gym memberships!

1.  Go for a run

–  Not only is running one of the best forms of cardiovascular exercise, but it’s also great for weight loss. Pull your trainers on and head outside; but don’t try and sprint a 10k run if you’re not used to it. Running’s a high impact activity, which means it’s TOUGH; so build up the distances you run. Start small and work your way up in order to avoid accidentally injuring yourself. And it will pay off; running burns 600 calories an hour!

2.  Find your inner-ballerina

–  Put on some of your favourite songs and dance around your room like a wad woman for half an hour. Dance is great for flexibility and balance. Not only will it improve your posture but it will also tone your thighs and leave you feeling as a graceful as if you were on Strictly yourself. And best of all, it’s free.

3.  Youtube Workouts

–  Looking for an exercise class but simply can’t afford to pay the costs every week? Check out the huge range of YouTube tutorials for workouts. Personal trainers upload videos of specific exercises to target whatever part of your body that you’re looking to improve. Simply find a tutorial that works best for you and get moving!

4.  Improvise; turn tins into weights

–  Many large tins or water bottles can double up as hand weights. Try it and see for yourself!

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5.  Invest in a skipping rope

–  Buy yourself a cheap skipping rope and reap the benefits. Skipping is a great form of exercise and burns 480 calories an hour. It’s also great for fitness, flexibility and coordination. Either find a quiet place inside or attempt it indoors (Just make sure the area’s clear around you first!)

    7.  The Home Workout

–  Turn being at home into fitting in small bursts of exercise. Get cleaning; not only will it leave your home spotless and fresh, but it can also be a easy way to burn a few calories. Try squatting when hoovering in order to work on leg muscles, or sit ups in front of your favourite shows. It’s all about incorporating easy techniques into our lifestyles in order to keep our workouts easy and manageable.

8.  Join BodySoc!

–  Whilst a pricey gym membership may be unaffordable, paying for a society might be a little more manageable. By joining a sport society like BodySoc, you can great discounts off exercise classes that would normally cost a fortune. Not only is it a great way to meet new people, but you can also find whatever class suits you best. And it won’t cost a fortune!

 

Image Credits: nutricionistagiovanaguido.wordpress.com, makeupandbeauty.com