Sweatin' it Out(side)

If you have been paying a monthly membership at a gym (and don't use it enough to make it worth the while!), consider taking September off to workout at home or outside instead. The weather's good for walking, jogging, biking, rollerblading, and playing games with your family or friends. You can workout at home using videos or DVDs.  If you don't have any, borrow from a friend, or check out garage sales or second hand stores--I once got 6 videos for $1.50. Tip: See if your TV has Picture-in Picture that allows you to watch regular TV with a small screen of the workout video in the corner--makes familiar routines go so much faster!

There are also plenty of workouts you can download and follow at home. Check out Spark People for free videos that are easy to follow for a quick workout. If you really like the gym equipment, make sure you figure out if you're making your monthly membership worth it. If you only make it there once a week, you may be better off paying a daily fee instead of a month. Or, if you're gym membership is prepaid, your savings contribution can be bringing your own water bottle from home instead of buying bottled.

Investment: If you like the outdoors or have videos or a computer connection already, there's no need to spend money! Home equipment or videos can cost a bit, but find the cheapest way to get those (garage sales, friends,  thrift store, or check Amazon or Ebay for info-mercial type exercise programs--never order directly off TV!)

Instead of: $30 gym membership (or whatever you're currently paying) 

Savings: Membership and bottled water minus whatever you spend to set up your home workout.

Bonus: Mixing up your workout can help you get off a "plateau" and a fun workout is one you'll stick to! You can also workout when you want (in the grubby clothes you want) instead running on the gym's schedule. Plus, if you plan fun family outdoor activities, these can take the place of expensive movie/restaurant/shopping outings.