You don’t need to spend money on a gym membership to start living a more active life in 2022.

Gym memberships often rise at the beginning of the new year as people join determined to start living a healthier and more active life. While joining a gym is certainly not bad because they do provide many resources, it can put a dent in your wallet, and it is easy for people to “fall off the wagon” for a variety of reasons. If you want to start making active changes in your life and are on a budget, or want to create a set routine before committing to a gym membership, here are some alternatives according to Credit.org:

• Walking – starting a regular walking practice can help form a routine and it will get you up out of your chair! You can invite friends or neighbors to join you, and you can walk at a variety of public spaces, like parks or trails to mix things up. In the winter you could go to a large public building, like a community center or mall, and walk around indoors.
• Public Parks – Parks may offer a variety of free activity space for people to utilize, such as a basketball or tennis court. Although, you will most likely have to provide your own equipment. Also, newer additions to some parks include outdoor exercise equipment for the public to use.
• Smartphone Apps/YouTube – There are a variety of free or low-cost apps that can be downloaded to your phone. Often, you can set it up so the app will notify or remind you to be active. Some apps to consider are Nike Training Club, 7 Minute Workout, and Yoga for Beginners. Another option is to download the YouTube app and search for workout videos to follow along with.
  
• Community Centers/Local YMCA – Another free or low-cost option, especially if you like group classes, is to check out a local community center or YMCA. Sometimes classes may be offered for free, and if they are not, both options are generally cheaper than a regular gym membership.

Download a PDF of the wellness newsletter to print and share with your employees.