Can I Be Fit and Frugal?

So you decide it's time to get fit.

Maybe you first go grocery shopping and try to buy all the trendy foods that the fitstagrammers of Instagram use. #ad #sponsoredpost #theyrenotpayingforit

Then, you try to choose a gym. Wow, why is working out so expensive?

Then, you need some cute clothes to get you motivated and looking cute in your fancy new fitness club. Then you need to get massages weekly because you're so sore. Then you need a bag to carry your food, face wipes, towel, etc, etc.

Now, you're getting evicted but at least you're fit. HA!

I may have exaggerated the scenario a bit, but I think you know what I mean! The "fit" lifestyle can seem to be a big expense which can overwhelm and discourage people! I've compiled some of the tips that I apply to stay within a budget!

Food and Grocery

• Shop sales at the grocery store - I cannot believe the number of people I talk to that over look this! Grocery stores put out a weekly circular with the sale items for the week. If you plan you're grocery list around this, you will save a ton versus going in and buying whatever suits your fancy. 
• Don't opt for convenience - Often times, pre-portioned snack foods, hard boiled eggs, pre-made lunches, etc. are far more expensive than the unprepared counterpart. Try portioning out your own snacks, take the time to make your own lunch the night ahead. I will admit, I splurge on hard boiled eggs because I don't usually have time to do this! 
• Rewards Memberships - Grocery stores and supplement stores (i.e. GNC, Vitamin Shoppe) usually have a membership program that offers members discounts and special promotions. 
• Be expiration date conscious - This is simple - don't be wasteful!
• Utilize discount websites for pantry items - I use LuckyVitamin.com and find great prices there. You can also use code 5OFF for a discount and they offer free shipping on orders over $49.
• Limit going out to eat.
• Bring your own drinks and food if you're going to be out all day. Purchasing drinks by the case is way cheaper than buying a single bottle from the gas station. It's similar with food, especially if you're trying to make healthy choices. 

Gym/Working Out

• Find a cheap gym - Planet Fitness may get some hate for their marketing but if that's what your budget allows, go for it. You can still build muscle in a Planet Fitness. 
• Workout at home or outside - You can also get a great workout in at home if that's what fits your budget! There are free workouts on YouTube, online, or there are paid programs that you can follow anywhere. If anything, you could also invest in a few dumbbells and resistance bands. You can also use park equipment, running, etc. to work on your fitness in the great outdoors. 
• Pay up front for a gym membership - I personally go to Gold's gym which is the mid-price gym in my area. I chose their cheapest package and received an additional discount by paying for the entire year up front. I actually like that better so I don't have a monthly drain on my account. 

Miscellaneous

• Enter giveaways if you have spare time - This one may seem silly but it's very effective. I was spending a lot of time on Instagram or Facebook anyway, so I started entering the giveaways (usually involves commenting and tagging a friend). I've won several giveaways for protein bars, nut butters, coconut oil, coconut butter, baking utensils, workout clothes, protein snacks, a foam roller, a shaker cup, popcorn, etc.)
• Shop at thrift stores, Walmart, Target, Marshall's, etc for workout apparel and accessories. Though big name brands may be super trendy on the Instagram celebrities, you don't need it! Don't get caught up in the hype. Many of them probably receive the products for free with the whole idea of making you think you need it. They hike up the price and offer you 20% off when you use their code. Marketing. I've found some great items at thrift stores. I look for items that are decent and not too worn looking. I found a LuLulemon long sleeve tee with thumbholes for only $4! Marshall's also has really great leggings for cheap. I, admittedly, love and have splurged on Foxy Athletic leggings but I was initially introduced to them by winning a giveaway for a gift card, so I got them really cheap! They often run sales and giveaways so if there's a brand you love, watch out for deals!
• Shop Black Friday or specials for accessories - I purchased wireless headphones for $25 last Black Friday and they haven't failed me yet!

Those are my tips for living a fit lifestyle without breaking the bank! What are your tips? What do you think is the hardest part of budgeting?