July 16, 2009

Exercising on a Budget

Years ago, I didn't have access to a gym or my own exercise equipment and I was bound and determined to figure out a way for me to still be able to lift even though I didn't have the budget to go make any purchases right away. Since then I've come across some friends and clients who were in that same position, and I could relate to their feelings of frustration! I shared those exercise failures and triumphs I had experienced and showed them some moves to try at home.

That time seems so long ago...like, almost 10 years ago. (Does anybody know an exercise to make time slow down???)

I've modified a few of those exercises over the years, figuring out what works and what doesn't. You can use inexpensive items commonly found around the house to help strengthen your muscles and get your heart rate up, but I posted my favorite one below, along with some exercises. Use these exercises separately or as part of a full body program.

YOUR EQUIPMENT:
Gallon of water. You know, the kind that have a handle on them and look like a plastic milk jug. Fill them with water or sand and weigh them to get an accurate measurement. Wa-la: homemade dumbbells.

YOUR EXCERCISES:
walking lunges, holding H2O gallons in each hand
calf raises on stairs holding H2O gallon(s)
chest flies, bench press (use H2O gallons while lying on a bench, a bunch of pillows under your back, or the floor)
bicep curls, triceps extensions, shoulder press; all using H2O gallons
planks
pushups

CARDIO:
mountain climbers
jumping jacks
burpees

Just a few ideas to get you started. A few.

Do you have any modified equipment you've put together? As great (and cheap) as modified equipment can be, remember there are sometimes issues with safety. Not just any box can be used as a step box; those need to be big and sturdy enough to distribute the weight that's being placed upon it. If it's not sturdy enough, and you happen to step on the wrong part of the box, you'll fall. I've done it, and it's not pretty. So be careful when you attempt to make a piece of exercise equipment, but never give up. Something is bound to work!

8 comments:

Kim @ Kim and Mikey said...

Thanks for stopping by my blog - and an even bigger thanks for the tips on dealing with morning sickness. I will be having toast as soon as my feet hit the floor in the morning.

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V said...

Hi Amy, these are really good tips. I exercise at home and at the gym at work, where it's free. Had a gym membership but didn't need it. I have hand weights and an exercise band which is plenty enough. I walk for cardio and chair dips for my triceps. It can be done! Thanks for sharing.

Weight Loss Center said...

These are some great tips. I have heard people make the excuse that they can't get regular exercise because they can't afford a gym membership. But you don't need a gym to get a decent workout in every day. Even housework can get you breaking a sweat.

Claire said...

This post is great! I plan to do an exercise routine one of these days, and you gave me an idea that I can save money not going to gym and just perform the tips you shared in my house.

OnTarget Nutrition said...

The gallons of water is a great idea! I have used canned foods as weights, they are easy to hold and come in a variety of weights:)

Nutrition Tracker

Ms Courtney Maree said...

Hi I just have a question about the water and sand filling bottle thing. would one be heavier than the other or will it be the same weight?

Ms Courtney Maree said...
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