Cheap Ways to Stay Fit This Summer

When summer arrives, it’s the perfect time to embrace the outdoors and focus on staying fit. The great news is that you don’t need to spend a lot of money on expensive gym memberships or fitness equipment. There are so many affordable and even free ways to stay active during the summer months. In this article, I’ll share with you some of my favorite cheap ways to stay fit this summer, using simple and fun activities that anyone can do, no matter your fitness level.

Take Advantage of Outdoor Activities

One of the best ways to stay fit without spending money is by getting outside. Nature offers so many opportunities for exercise that won’t cost you a dime. I love exploring the outdoors in the summer, and I make it a point to walk or bike as often as I can. Here are some outdoor activities that are perfect for staying fit.

Walking and Jogging

Walking is one of the most accessible forms of exercise, and it’s something anyone can do without special equipment. I often take long walks through my neighborhood or visit a nearby park. It’s a great way to get my heart rate up and enjoy the beautiful summer weather. If you’re looking for a bit more intensity, you can jog instead of walking. Even a short jog can help improve your cardiovascular health, and it’s a simple exercise that you can do almost anywhere.

Hiking

Another outdoor activity I love is hiking. There’s something about being on a trail, surrounded by nature, that makes the experience both peaceful and physically challenging. Hiking is fantastic for building leg strength and stamina, and you don’t need any special equipment aside from a good pair of shoes. Many cities and towns have local trails that are free to access, so hiking is an inexpensive way to enjoy the outdoors while getting in some cardio.

Use Bodyweight Exercises

You don’t need fancy equipment or a gym membership to stay in shape. Bodyweight exercises are one of the most effective and affordable ways to build strength and endurance. I’ve included a variety of bodyweight exercises in my workout routine, and they’ve proven to be just as effective as using weights. Here are some of my favorite bodyweight exercises that you can do anywhere.

Push-Ups

Push-ups are a fantastic upper-body exercise that targets the chest, shoulders, and arms. I always include them in my workout routines because they’re easy to do and require no equipment. If traditional push-ups are too challenging, you can modify them by doing them on your knees or against a wall until you build up strength.

Squats

Squats are another excellent bodyweight exercise that works the legs and glutes. I love doing squats because they’re simple to perform, and they engage multiple muscle groups. If you’re looking for a more challenging variation, you can try jump squats to add intensity. Squats are a great exercise to incorporate into your routine, and they require no equipment at all.

Planks

Planks are an excellent way to strengthen the core. I like to hold a plank for 30 seconds to a minute at a time, focusing on keeping my body straight and engaging my core muscles. There are different variations of planks, such as side planks and forearm planks, so you can mix it up to keep things interesting. Planks are an easy yet highly effective way to strengthen your abs and back.

Explore Free Online Workouts

The internet has a wealth of free resources to help you stay active, including workout videos, fitness challenges, and virtual classes. I’ve taken full advantage of free online workouts, and they’ve helped me maintain my fitness goals without spending a penny. Here are some ways you can use the internet to stay fit without breaking the bank.

YouTube Workouts

YouTube is an excellent source for free workout videos. There are countless fitness trainers and influencers who post videos with everything from yoga routines to high-intensity interval training (HIIT) workouts. I love exploring different types of workouts on YouTube, as it keeps my fitness routine fresh and exciting. The best part is that these videos are free, and you can follow along at your own pace, anytime and anywhere.

Fitness Apps

There are also many free fitness apps available that offer workout plans, fitness challenges, and daily exercise routines. I’ve used several fitness apps that helped me stay consistent with my workouts. Some apps even track your progress, so you can see how much you’ve improved over time. Most of these apps offer both beginner and advanced workout programs, so they’re perfect for any fitness level.

Incorporate Yoga Into Your Routine

Yoga is a wonderful and inexpensive way to stay fit during the summer. It not only improves flexibility and strength but also helps with stress relief and relaxation. I find that yoga is perfect for balancing out the more intense workouts I do, and it’s an activity I can practice anywhere, even at home.

Home Yoga Practice

Practicing yoga at home is one of the most affordable ways to stay fit. You don’t need anything more than a yoga mat, which is relatively inexpensive, and some free online classes or videos. I enjoy following along with online instructors who guide me through various yoga flows. Yoga is a great way to improve both mental and physical health, and it can be done in the comfort of your home, making it a low-cost activity.

Outdoor Yoga

Summer is the perfect time to take your yoga practice outside. I love unrolling my mat in the park or my backyard, breathing in the fresh air, and connecting with nature while I practice. Outdoor yoga brings an added sense of peace and relaxation, and it’s the perfect way to enjoy the summer weather while staying fit. You don’t need a fancy studio—just a quiet outdoor space and your mat.

Get Active with Fun and Free Activities

Staying fit doesn’t have to feel like a chore. In fact, there are plenty of fun activities that will keep you active and healthy without costing a dime. I enjoy engaging in recreational activities that also help me stay fit during the summer.

Biking

Biking is one of my favorite ways to stay fit, and it’s something I can do alone or with friends. It’s a fantastic way to get a cardio workout while exploring your neighborhood or local parks. Many places have bike-sharing programs, which makes biking an affordable option if you don’t have your own bike. Plus, biking is fun, and it’s an enjoyable way to burn calories.

Swimming

If you have access to a pool or a lake, swimming is an excellent full-body workout. It’s easy on the joints and works your arms, legs, and core. Swimming is especially refreshing in the summer heat, and it’s a great way to cool off while staying active.

Playing Sports

Playing sports is another fun and free way to stay fit. Whether you enjoy soccer, basketball, or tennis, there are plenty of opportunities to play in your local community. Many parks have free courts and fields where you can gather with friends or join a pick-up game.

Conclusion

Staying fit this summer doesn’t require spending a lot of money. With so many cheap ways to stay fit this summer, it’s all about finding what works for you and enjoying the process. Whether you’re walking in the park, practicing yoga in your backyard, or riding your bike around town, staying active doesn’t have to cost a thing. Embrace the outdoors, use free online resources, and make fitness fun this summer—your body and your wallet will thank you!