Fitness is Where You Are

For years, I struggled with the costs of attending a local gym. I wanted to attend group classes, but those gyms were $60 - $120 month. My insurance didn't cover that and I was already surviving by being a client at the local food shelf. I couldn't make those payments. I took up a part time job at a gym on the weekends so I could get a free membership. After working the required 20 hours and then the 40 at my regular full time job, I was too tired to work out. I changed jobs and picked up a membership where if I went 15 times that month to a gym on the insurance plan, I wouldn't be charged that month's fee. Working three jobs, I couldn't make it 15 times a month. I'm not sure why it took me so long to think of this. I was given a gift card to Target for my birthday and used it to purchase weights and a couple workout DVDs. Instead of the added stress of joining a gym, I made my own. Now, during the summer, I walk, hike, ride bike and lift weights. During the winter, I increase my time lifting weights and use the DVDs to work out. It was a much better investment as I could workout any time with no cost and no pressure to check in a certain amount of days. Instead of trying to go to a gym, I started building in fitness where ever I was. Work out at home. Take the stairs at work. Do an extra lap on the track. I am beyond excited that my cardio, strength and endurance has already increased. For my lifestyle and needs, a personal home gym was the way to go.