Aerobic and Strength Training

• 1). Begin by walking, jogging, running or a combination of these aerobic exercises, depending on your level of fitness, general health and goals. Aerobic exercise is an important component of a complete exercise plan. For the cost of a good pair of running or walking shoes, you can greatly improve your health without any additional expenses. You also can get the benefits of inexpensive aerobic exercise by jumping rope or following along with an exercise program on television or on DVD. You can save more money by borrowing exercise DVDs from the library.
  
  
• 2). Add strength training to your program by including push-ups, sit-ups and squats in your routine. They are free. You can increase the number of strength-training exercises you can do if you obtain a set of dumbbells at a garage sale, from someone advertising online or another source of previously owned equipment. Many people buy exercise equipment and sell it cheaply because they don't use it. Take advantage of these opportunities to obtain inexpensive exercise equipment you will use. You can also use canned foods for lighter weights. As with aerobic exercises, you may be able to find library DVDs that demonstrate strength-training exercises.
  
  
• 3). See if you employer or health care provider offers free or inexpensive exercise classes. You also have the option of paying for individual exercise classes rather than joining a health or fitness club for several months or year. An even less expensive option is to find or organize your own group of people to work out with and exchange ideas for keeping your exercise routine interesting and inexpensive. This also provides moral and motivational support.
  
  
• 4). Slowly accumulate home exercise equipment that allows you to perform a variety of exercises. According to The New York Times, it is possible to obtain hand weights, resistance bands, an exercise ball, jump rope and a bar for performing chin-ups for less than $25 each. Asking your family and friends to give you exercise equipment for your birthday and other gift-giving occasions is another option for building a home gym without great expense.