Staying fit doesn’t have to be expensive! At MaxFit Gym, we believe in making fitness accessible and affordable to everyone. Whether you’re a gym member, a fitness enthusiast, or just starting out, here are some cost-effective ways to stay active and improve your health without spending a fortune.
1. Run Your Way to Fitness with Couch to 5k and Parkrun
We encourage all our members to begin their fitness journey by aiming to complete a 5km run without stopping. The NHS offers a fantastic (and free!) app called Couch to 5k, which helps build your running stamina gradually. It’s a great way to progress from a beginner to an avid runner and, over time, an enthusiastic gym-goer.
Once you’re ready, why not join the parkrun community? This nationwide phenomenon recently celebrated its 20th anniversary! For those unfamiliar, parkruns are free, timed 5km runs that take place every Saturday morning. There are also Junior Parkruns (2km) on Sundays—perfect for getting started. We regularly participate in the Waterworks Parkrun, where you’ll experience a great sense of community, receive a personal barcode to track your times, and get an online profile. There’s nothing like getting your PB recognised and celebrated on social media—it’s an amazing way to kickstart your Saturday!
2. Utilise Free Fitness Content on YouTube
You don’t need a personal trainer or expensive classes to stay active. YouTube offers an extensive library of fitness content for free. Whether you’re into bodyweight workouts, yoga, Pilates, or gym-based routines, you’ll find it all. Personally, I’ve been doing yoga for free on YouTube for nearly a decade—using the same video every morning, and it’s done wonders for my flexibility and mental clarity. Consistency is key, and it doesn’t have to cost a penny. (I’ll share the link to my favourite yoga video at the end of this article below—give it a try!)
3. Join a Local Team or Group
Getting involved in a team sport or group activity is another great way to stay fit on a budget. I’ve played team sports throughout my life, and the accountability of showing up for your teammates, the motivation to push harder, and the competition keep you driven. The best part? Many of these activities are free or come with a small monthly fee of £20-30.
Beyond team sports, there are numerous other groups to get involved with, covering almost every interest:
- Walking Groups: The Ramblers have a strong presence across Northern Ireland, with local groups organising regular walks for all levels. These walks offer great social interaction while you explore beautiful trails.
- Swimming Groups: Open-water swimming groups like the Goonies and the Glengormley Dippers meet regularly for swims and social events. Whether you’re looking for a casual dip or a regular swimming routine, these groups are a fantastic option.
- Hiking Enthusiasts: The Cavehill Walk is a local favourite, taking around 1.5 – 2 hrs minutes to complete. It’s a challenging hike that’s great for cardiovascular health, leg strength, and mental clarity. Many hiking groups in the area tackle this trail regularly, providing great company and motivation.
These groups are generally easy to find via Facebook or local community pages, so no matter where you live, you can find an activity that suits you.
4. Affordable Fitness Trackers for Accountability
Tracking your progress is essential for fitness success. While high-end fitness watches can cost hundreds, there are great, affordable options available too. My wife recently shared a deal for a £20 fitness tracker, and it’s as good as my £400 Samsung watch! If you’re looking for a budget-friendly way to monitor your steps, workouts, and heart rate, I’ll link to her recommended tracker here.
5. MaxFit Gym Low-Cost Membership Options
At MaxFit, we offer various affordable membership options tailored to different needs:
- Junior Membership: £20.99/month
- Basic Membership: £25.99/month, giving you access to strength and cardio equipment
- Small Group Training & Classes: From £21.50/week for small group sessions and PT
These packages provide everything you need to stay fit while keeping costs manageable.
6. Aim for 10,000 Steps a Day
A simple yet effective fitness goal is aiming for 10,000 steps a day. Whether you’re using a high-end smartwatch or an affordable tracker, this is a proven way to boost cardiovascular health, burn calories, and improve mental well-being. Regular walking is easy, free, and a fantastic habit for maintaining fitness.
Bonus Tip: Follow Us for Free Content!
We regularly post blogs, tips, and content on social media to keep you informed and motivated. From cost-saving tips to workout plans, following our pages will provide you with ongoing inspiration and valuable resources—all for free!
Staying fit doesn’t have to be expensive—it’s all about making the most of what’s available to you. Whether you’re a MaxFit Gym member or just starting your fitness journey, there are plenty of affordable ways to keep active and healthy.
Ready to kickstart your fitness journey with us? Book a No Sweat Intro today and let’s chat about your goals and how we can help you achieve them! 💪
Oh, p.s. here’s my all time favourite FREE youtube yoga session, I estimate that I’ve done it close to 1,000 times.
