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Many people join gyms at the new year, but it’s not the only option for getting fit.  

Gym memberships spike during the month of January. If you’re considering joining a gym or fitness center this year, you might be wondering, “Is it really worth the money?”

The short answer: it depends. If you regularly workout or attend a fitness class, a gym membership can certainly help keep you healthy and fit. Doing so can also potentially reduce future medical expenses. However, if you sign up and rarely or never workout, the money is wasted. Be sure to consider all alternatives before enrolling at a gym.

Free options

There always have been, and always will be, free options for exercising. Walking and running are two of the most popular activities. There are also many videos on YouTube that can lead you through practices such as yoga, tai chi and qi gong.

Nearly free options

You can participate in organized fitness activities without joining a gym. Many community centers, churches and schools host low-cost fitness classes. Easily find groups that meet regularly for activities such as dancing or hiking on sites like MeetUp and Facebook.

Invest in at-home equipment

If getting to the gym is the biggest obstacle to exercising, having access to fitness equipment at home means you can exercise without the hassle of travel. Mats, resistance bands and simple weights are all low-cost equipment that can support your at-home workouts.

If you have the room and budget for larger equipment, consider a smart bike, workout mirror, treadmill, weight machine or an elliptical. Considering purchasing pre-owned equipment to save some money.

Apps help you stay on track

Fitness apps are another alternative to a gym membership. Many people find that workout apps are just the motivation they need to trim down or bulk up. Check out these picks from PC magazine.

Check your insurance policy and employer benefits

Some health insurance policies and employer benefit plans offer fitness incentives. Learn if discounts are available through your health insurer. If your employer has an onsite fitness center, the cost is typically much less than other gym memberships. Some employers that don’t have fitness centers offer subsidies for gym memberships.

Budget for fitness

One way to stay on track with fitness goals is to include it in your budget. When you set up a savings account to cover monthly costs of your workout activities—whether that’s a gym membership or working out at home—you help keep your body and your finances healthy.

Consumers provides banking services for more than 117,000 members. If you have banking questions, call us at 800-991-2221. We make it easy to bank how you want, when you want.

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Consumers home loans

We’d love to help you with a mortgage or home equity line of credit.

Learn more.