Summer is a great time to get outside, try new activities, and build healthy habits but staying active can get expensive quickly. Here are 6 ways to stay active this summer while keeping your budget in mind.
While fitness advice isn’t something we can help with directly, we are sharing this for educational purposes. We do, however, oversee the rules for fitness contracts, which you can learn about more below.
How to stay active and save money this summer
Between gym memberships, fitness classes, sports leagues, and equipment costs, it’s easy for expenses to add up. Here are some ways to keep costs down while enjoying an active lifestyle.
1. Take advantage of free outdoor activities
Summer is a great time to take advantage of free ways to stay active. Walking trails, local beaches, hiking, biking, and outdoor fitness classes can help you stay moving without adding extra costs to your budget.
2. Check community centers for low-cost programs
Many community centers offer affordable drop-in classes, fitness programs, and recreational activities during the summer months. Checking local schedules may help you find new activities at a lower cost than private fitness studios or gyms.
3. Exercise with friends and family
Staying active with friends or family can make exercise feel more enjoyable and help you stay motivated. Activities like walking, swimming, pickleball, or weekend hikes can also be a low-cost way to spend time together during the summer
4. Look for second-hand sports equipment
Sports and fitness equipment can be expensive, especially for seasonal activities. Shopping second-hand, borrowing equipment, or checking local community groups can help reduce costs while still allowing you to try something new.
5. Make movement a part of your routine
Staying active is often easier when you choose activities you genuinely enjoy. Whether it’s hiking, swimming, gardening, or joining a recreational sports league, finding activities that fit your interests may help you stay consistent throughout the summer.
6. Understand your rights for fitness contracts
We oversee cancellation rights in certain situations. For example, you can cancel your fitness contact within the first 10 days, no matter what. You can find more information on cancelling a gym membership on our website.
Staying active doesn’t have to involve expensive memberships or complicated routines. Sometimes small changes, like getting outside more often or trying free community activities can make a big difference!
What are your favourite low-cost ways to stay active during the summer? Share your ideas in the comments.
Where to go for more information
Fitness advice or money saving tips are not topics we have any authority over and we’re sharing it purely for educational purposes.
We’re responsible for enforcing certain rules for fitness contracts in BC. The law speaks to your cancellation rights in certain situations. You can learn more about your cancellation rights for fitness contracts on our website.
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About Consumer Protection BC
We are not-for-profit regulator responsible for overseeing certain industries and specific consumer transactions in British Columbia. If your concern is captured under the laws we enforce, we will use the tools at our disposal to assist you. If we can’t help you directly, we will try to offer a referral to a relevant organization, if one exists. Other times, court or legal assistance may be the best option. Explore our website at www.consumerprotectionbc.ca.
Please note information on our website is provided for educational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. For details, read our website disclaimer.