Operation Don’t Go Broke

Get fit without shrinking your wallet

Operation Don’t Go Broke is devoted to bringing readers helpful tips on ways to save in college.
Fitness doesn’t have to cost a fortune. With a little effort, everyday activities can equate to mini-workouts. Before committing to a pricey gym membership, consider these affordable alternatives:

• Park in the lower level parking lots. One of the perks of attending a  “vertical” campus is you’re guaranteed to burn calories hiking to class.
• Clean house. Turn up the music and clean your home from top to bottom. You’ll work up a sweat and your roommates will love you.
• Dance. Whether you’re popping and locking, moshing or line dancing, the point is you’re getting your heart rate up as you boogey.
• Shovel your driveway. Don’t outsource snow removal. You’ll burn hundreds of calories and save money, if you do the work yourself. Caution: Heavy lifting. Consult a physician.
• Play in the snow. A good old fashioned snowball fight or an afternoon of sledding are excellent ways to get your heart pumping in the dead of winter.
• Simply walkingthrough snow is a workout. Take your dog for a stroll or take a photo walk, snapping pictures as you go.

  

• Interactive video games are so fun, you won’t even realize you’re getting exercise. Challenge a friend to a game of Fruit Ninja or Wii Sports.
• Volunteering gets you out of the house and gives back to the community. Find out more at Volunteer Connect. http://www.volunteerconnectnow.org/
• Stream a free workout video. Squidoo has taken all the guess work out and compiled a list of links for you.  http://www.squidoo.com/free-workout-videos-online

Working out doesn’t have to be work and it does not require expensive equipment. The key is to stay active. Start by getting off the couch and see where that takes you.
***Consult your doctor before beginning a workout regimen.
First year COCC nursing student, Anna Quesenberry is a wife and mother of two who is passionate about saving money.
(Contact: [email protected])