Between the expensive gym membership you can't seem to escape, and the endless supply of cute workout gear you just cant resist, working out can get pretty costly. However, you can easily crack down on spending with a few clever tricks, like following your favourite trainers [1] for workout inspiration, downloading all the free workout apps [2], and looking to the great outdoors to inspire your next workout.
Next time you're thinking about shelling out for a gym membership, save yourself some money by working up a sweat with nine free, awesome workouts that'll force you to explore the great outdoors.
Hiking
Depending on where you live, you may not be surrounded by awe-inspiring hiking trails. But, you can definitely simulate the experience with something as simple as exploring an urban park in your city. The long stroll will help rack your LISS cardio [4] miles up.
HIIT
If you don't want to spend too long sweating it out in the sun, a HIIT workout [5] may be just what you need. There's no need for you to have any equipment either, because there are tons of HIIT routines you can try that are bodyweight only [6]. All you really need is yourself, a motivating playlist, and an even surface.
Interval Runs
For many people, hitting the treadmill feels a whole lot easier than pounding the pavements. You don't have to be tethered to the treadmill to get your favourite form of cardio in, and you can achieve the same thing and even build your endurance by hitting the streets for free.
If you're intimidated, start with run-walk intervals [8] in the park or around your neighbourhood, and slowly build your pace and distance [9].
Swimming
Swimming outdoors may not be the wisest option during the colder months. But when it's hot, you should definitely make the effort to scout out a free community pool in your area and proceed to enjoy this great, low-impact cardio that'll get your heart racing [10].
Stairs
There's a reason you've seen people queue up to use the stairmaster at the gym. The climbing machine works your legs, bum, and core while also helping you work up a satisfying amount of sweat.
Head to a local stairwell in your town or neighbourhood where you'll not only have the run of the entire thing, but you'll also have the benefit of the great outdoors distracting you from the gruelling workout.
Yoga
If you're feeling a little unsure about paying excessive amounts for yoga classes at your local gym, you'd better grab your mat and head outside. Load up a playlist or a guided flow [11], and turn your garden into your own exclusive yoga retreat.
Beach Runs
Beaches aren't solely for sunbathing, they also make great terrains to run on. If you do decided to sprint, run-walk, or jog the length of a beach, make sure to stretch, warmup and cool down, because they aren't the most forgiving surfaces on your joints [12].
Cycling
Rent, borrow or invest in a second-hand bike, and find some hilly streets to ride up and down. There's no need to be stuck in a spin class with a time limit on it when you can go for hours at your own pace — and with your own playlist [13]!
Skipping
Skipping isn't just a nostalgic pastime from your childhood, it's also an amazing way to get a cardio workout in [14] that won't cost you a thing. Simply grab your skipping rope, lace up your trainers, and get going with a fun routine [15].