Get Your Body and Your Finances in Shapeby Mary Ann Romans | More from this Blogger 20 May 2009 08:01 AM With the warm weather coming, you might be more conscious of getting your body in shape for a summer full of swimming and lighter clothing. joining a gym can be a great way to do this, but let's face it, a gym won't do anything for your finances. Here is how to get in shape or stay in shape while actually benefiting your bottom line. Substitute your feet Make it a challenge to substitute your feet for your car as often as possible. Take a walk or a bike ride to the store if that is feasible. Is the store too far? See if your neighbor down the block will pick up a few things for you. You'll save money by only purchasing the essentials, and you will get in some extra exercise walking to your neighbor's house (don't forget to do the same for her). Walk to school, the park, and anywhere around town that you need to go. Bike to work. Multitask that equipment When you are on fitness equipment, instead of listening to music, why not take out some audio books on financial or frugal topics. The Tightwad Gazette or books by Suzy Orman are great to listen to. The exercise will get your blood flowing and your brain more receptive to understanding and remembering the advice. Of course, you should check these audio books out of the library instead of purchasing them. Community resources What are some of the least expensive ways to gain access to fitness equipment and facilities? Check first with your local community center. Very often, community resources are free or of very low cost to residents. Our town has several parks with tracks and natural trails to walk, as well as key access to tennis courts for residents. A bonus feature of using community centers is that you are likely to network with other residents and learn about more money saving opportunities in the area. Just yesterday, I was exchanging ideas about free kids events in the area with another resident. Mary Ann Romans writes about everything related to saving money in the Frugal Blog, creating a home in the Home Blog, caring for little ones in the Baby Blog and now relationships in the Marriage Blog. You can read more of her articles by clicking here or subscribe to the blog using the subscription box on the right. Favorite Deal Websites: Related Articles: 12 Ways Staying Home Saves Money Overmyminutes.com: Keep Track of Your Cell Phone Usage Simple Attempts at Money Stewardship Money Saving Steps to Take When You Are Laid Off Learn more about Mary Ann Romans  Mary Ann Romans is a freelance writer, wife and mother of three children. She lives in Pennsylvania with her husband, the kids and a 16-pound cat. Relevantfrugal tags User Comments No comments on this article yet. Be the first to comment! Discuss this article
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