We’ve all heard the news, we should be eating healthier and getting active, looking after our bodies, hearts and minds and ensuring that we don’t put any unnecessary stress on our muscles, bones and joints through overeating or indulging too heavily in calorie ridden drinks. 

While getting healthier is always easier said than done, particularly as people seem busier than ever before, meaning there is less and less time to dedicate to getting fit. Another key aspect in why many people struggle to obtain a healthy lifestyle comes from the smaller budgets we have now, with the economy in western worlds struggling and wages stricter than ever before. 

Luckily for us, getting healthy doesn’t have to cost the earth, especially when you shop smart! We’ve put together the following advise to help you make informed decisions that save your waistline without hurting your wallet in the process;

Stop Purchasing Expensive Equipment

It’s the oldest excuse in the book, I can’t do X without Y. Of course, in some circumstances, it’s the absolute truth, you wouldn’t send a roofer to a job without a hammer, but exercise doesn’t have those restrictions. Anyone can jog, jump, hop and skip on the spot with no equipment required and you shouldn’t let anyone convince you otherwise. If you are wanting to start exercising but the idea of a run doesn’t take your fancy, check out a set home workout that covers stretches and details the types of exercises that cater to certain muscle groups. 

Think exercise equipment is going to be your motivating factor? Avoid shelling out on brand new and potentially expensive equipment, instead look at second-hand equipment such as professional used gym equipment, refurbished treadmills and brand new equipment that no doubt ends up in your local charity shops. 

Eating Healthy Does Not Mean Eating Bland

Another poor excuse for getting healthy or eating better; “I just think healthy food tastes bland” is the mantra of someone that hasn’t really tried to cook healthier instead settled for a boring grilled chicken and portion of tasteless boiled vegetables. You can eat healthy and still enjoy every last bite of your delicious meal without feeling guilty! Look to websites like bbcgoodfood.com and foodnetwork.com who offer a library of recipes categorised as “Quick and Healthy”, “Cheap and Healthy” and even by the number of calories in a single portion. 

When combined with a quality recipe app that allows you to import recipes from across the web, you can generate shopping lists with all the ingredients you need to cook all your meals, making it easy to find cheaper, store-brand ingredients and reducing the amount of food waste. 

Swap a Personal Trainer with An Accountability Friend

Personal trainers are a great way to start a good habit and remain accountable however, they aren’t usually included in gym memberships (which are already an expensive investment!). Rather than shell out even more per month, find a friend that is also looking to change up their lifestyle habits or join a social media group for people looking to do the same and find yourself an accountability partner. 

An accountability partner is someone you check in with once a week to make sure you have both completed your individual healthy lifestyle agendas, whether this means working out a certain number of times a week, enjoying a healthy meal every evening or ensuring you haven’t fallen off the hurdle and turned back to snacking. It’s a great way to get support when you are struggling with making changes and have someone to talk, vent or celebrate with when things are or aren’t going to plan. 

Getting healthy doesn’t mean a boring life, simply adding a few good habits that improve your diet and keep you active, both mentally and physically. Start your healthy journey today and look forward to feeling better in yourself and your appearance!