Money-Saving Insider Fitness Hacks That'll Get You Fit, Not Broke
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I'm a fitness fanatic, but I'm also in my early 20s and on most weeks broke as heck. While I still prioritize fitness classes, activewear, and smoothies above all else in my life, I try to get thrifty whenever possible. Here are some of the best tips I've aggregated over the years.
- Get your gym membership on the 31st. In the midnight hour, big gyms like Equinox are looking to make their sales numbers — that's your time to strike. They'll waive initiation fees, lower rates, and throw in bonuses to sweeten the deal, all in an effort to convert you.
- Maximize your ClassPass. One of the best ways to maximize the dollars you throw toward group fitness? Get that ClassPass and take the priciest classes you can. For me, that means reformer Pilates and Lagree Megaformer. Because of the advanced (and expensive) machinery and the specific technique, these group classes can run upwards of $40 or $50 for a 40-minute class. I use my ClassPass ($65 for five classes in SF) for these workouts, which ends up costing me about $13 per class instead of $40.
- Wait for package deals. I typically buy classes from studios when they have a sale or package special. They happen throughout the year at different times depending on the studio (the Winter holidays are a popular time universally).
- Sign up for emails. Follow your favorite studios on Facebook and sign up for their emails — it's the best way to get the scoop (quickly) for promo deals like the aforementioned packages, as well as BOGO classes and "bring a guest for free" deals. I've definitely used this tactic at SoulCycle and got a few free afternoon classes this way!
- Amazon Prime your gear. When it comes to workout clothes, Amazon has an extensive selection of activewear and gear for steeply discounted prices. Whether you need a foam roller or a new pair of leggings, you can find it for cheaper than most places here.
- Hit up Costco. For healthy food in bulk, there's no better place than the hallowed halls of the warehouse formerly known as Price Club. Costco has incredibly cheap prices for staple foods like chia seeds, quinoa, coconut oil, and frozen fruit for smoothies. They even have protein powder from major brands like Vega. They also have deals on fitness equipment like treadmills, stand-up paddleboards, bikes, and rowers.
- Browse Poshmark. If you're an activewear addict, try Poshmark. They've got NWT (new with tags) clothes from brands like Nike and Lululemon at discounted prices. And if you're up for it, you can try your hand at some secondhand activewear.
- "First Class Free." Try a new studio tour and get your first classes free. You'll get out of your comfort zone, challenge your body, and save a lot of money.
- Use Groupon. In my experience, Groupon has been a great source of finding new studios and getting great rates on boutique fitness.
- Find the right sales. Love Lululemon but can't swallow the $100-yoga-pants-pill? Try the "We made too much" section on the site — it's their sale section and has fantastic deals. Is Nike more your style? They have warehouses and factory stores throughout the country where you can get brand new running shoes for $30 (I got my first pair of Nike Frees at one!).
- Free in-store classes. Fitness brands like Athleta, Nike, Lululemon, and The North Face offer free classes weekly in major cities. If you live near a store, it's a great way to get fit without spending money.
- Hit up Old Navy. For cute, reliable workout clothes that look more expensive than they are, head to Old Navy. The prices are stupid cheap, and the looks are actually adorable.
- Make your own smoothies. I came to the horrifying realization in San Francisco that a smoothie can easily run you $9, even if the ingredients aren't extraordinary (looking at you, Joe and the Juice). To save money, I keep a single-serving blender in my office and a tub of protein powder at my desk. That way= I can whip up a quick blend of fruits and veggies (or even coffee, peanut butter, and protein powder!) and save TONS of money.
- Refer a friend. Some studios and gyms have referral bonuses that include anything from free classes to free swag. Bring friends, get free stuff, everyone wins!