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5 Inexpensive Ways to Get and Stay Healthy

By August 4, 2016October 3rd, 2016Employee Benefits

Developing and maintaining a healthy lifestyle does not need to involve tightening your budget.

Here are 5 ways to get and stay healthy without breaking the bank:

Purchase fresh fruits and vegetables that are currently in season

Fresh Produce

You will get the best tasting food for your money and the most selection to choose from. Opt for products that are the most bountiful at your local farmer’s market or grocery store. Also look to see what in-season fruits and veggies are on sale. Then, incorporate those into your weekly meal plans.

Check with your local farms to see if they offer a CSA (community supported agriculture) subscription. That way you’re supporting your local farmers and have access to see the produce grow before your eyes. If you’re in Memphis, consider the Bring-It Food Hub or ROOTS Memphis CSAs.

Exercise with a friend instead of joining a fitness club

Fitness Club

Your friend will make you accountable for working out, will cheer you on to succeed and will be with you as you make strides towards your fitness goals. If you don’t have a human companion to work out with, walk or run with your dog on a regular basis. Memphis is full of incredible walking trails: Shelby Farms Greenline, Downtown Memphis, and various city-owned parks.

Look for healthy bargains in your grocery store

Fresh FruitThis may be as simple as choosing oatmeal instead of sugary, expensive cereals for breakfast; buying beans or portabella mushrooms instead of red meat; or drinking frozen orange juice instead of soda or fruit juice with sugar added.

Plan your meals before you shop

Knowing what meals you plan to prepare for the week will prevent you from overbuying unnecessary food items. Be a smart shopper. Before you make your Kroger run, download their app and create a shopping list with the items you need. Pro tip: Check their digital coupons to add straight to your shopping list and save even more at checkout.

Spring for a pedometer

Walking for a specific number of steps per day can help motivate you to reach your fitness goals. Walk away the pounds by parking farther away when you arrive at the office or grocery store. Additionally, many smartphones now have pedometers built in allowing you to track your steps daily without any added device.

Staying healthy does not need to be a financial strain, and exercising can truly be free! Get outside and go for a run or walk. Or, do jumping jacks, stretching and relay races with your kids. You’ll improve your fitness without spending a penny! View wellness tips on Twitter by searching #WellnessWednesday.

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