With the chill of winter creeping in, higher energy bills biting, and the festive season’s expenses looming large, keeping healthy often falls by the wayside.
But fear not! The geniuses at PureGym have come to the rescue with five budget-friendly tips to keep you in shape, no matter what’s left in your wallet.
1. Plan Your Meals Like a Pro
A little bit of planning can go a long way in stretching your budget and keeping your meals healthy.
Popping into the supermarket each evening for dinner might sound convenient, but it’s a surefire way to overspend.
Instead, map out your meals for the entire week and think about how you can turn tonight’s dinner into tomorrow’s lunch.
Not only does this save you from unnecessary splurging, but it also keeps your meals balanced and nutrient-rich.
For those in search of budget-friendly ideas, there are plenty of healthy recipes that cost less than a pound per portion!
And if you’re feeling a bit like a student again, check out some low-cost recipes designed for those on a tighter budget—no university ID required!
2. Go Frozen – It’s Cool and Cost-Effective!
Frozen fruits and vegetables are the unsung heroes of budget-friendly eating. They’re generally cheaper than fresh produce, last much longer, and help cut down on food waste—saving you those extra trips to the bin.
Contrary to popular belief, frozen doesn’t mean less nutritious. These goodies are often frozen at their peak ripeness, locking in all that essential goodness.
So, when you defrost and dive in, you’re getting just as much benefit as you would from fresh produce, minus the expense.
3. Veg Up Your Meat Dishes
If you’re a meat eater but find yourself running out of cash faster than your shopping list, bulking up those dishes with more vegetables is your best bet.
Not only does this make your meals heartier, but it also stretches your grocery budget further while boosting your nutrient intake.
Throw some extra veggies into that bolognese or stew, and suddenly, your plate looks fuller, your stomach feels satisfied, and your wallet remains intact. Plus, vegetables generally cost less than meat, giving you more bang for your buck.
4. Pack Your Lunch, Pack Your Savings
With many of us transitioning back to the office, the temptation to buy lunch out is stronger than ever. However, this habit can quickly drain your bank account—especially with the rising cost of meal deals.
While grabbing lunch with colleagues now and then is perfectly fine, making it a regular affair can add up faster than you might think.
Instead, pack your lunch! Not only is it a more economical choice, but it’s also often a tastier one, crafted with your flavour preferences in mind.
5. Use Free Resources to Stay Active
Who says getting fit has to come with a hefty price tag? The internet is overflowing with free fitness resources that can help you stay in shape without breaking the bank.
From running around your local park to finding home workout videos, there’s no shortage of ways to move your body for free.
For those who like a bit more structure, the PureGym app is a fantastic (and free!) resource.
Even if you’re not a PureGym member, you can download the app and access over 600 workout ideas.
Use them during your next gym session or even in your living room. It’s all about making the most of what’s available—at no cost!
Where is Staying Healthy the Cheapest?
On a global scale, PureGym has done some number crunching to find out which countries make it easiest to stay healthy on a budget.
By analysing the costs of key foods necessary for a balanced diet, gym memberships, and activewear—weighted against average salaries—they’ve ranked countries on affordability.
Surprisingly, the UK landed in 7th place worldwide, while Denmark secured the top spot as the most affordable country to maintain a healthy lifestyle. It seems like the Danes have it all figured out!
By following these straightforward tips from PureGym, anyone can make small changes that lead to big savings, all while keeping health and fitness at the forefront.
So, don’t let the winter woes get you down—embrace these strategies, stay active, and enjoy the season without the financial strain.