There might be affiliate links in this post. If you click on a link and make a purchase, I receive a small commission. Read my disclosure policy here.
This is a sponsored post that may contain affiliate links. Read my disclosure policy here.
Increasing physical activity and making better health decisions can yield both physical and monetary benefits.
If you’re looking to make positive changes in your life to improve your money situation and your health, here are some tips to do so.
1. Trying a new sport can save you money.
My daughter likes playing sports with the family. At first, she was hesitant to even try with us because she was fearing that we would then sign her up for an organized sport. My husband and I explained to her that you don’t have to officially join something to get some of the benefits it has to offer. We also wanted to show her that exercise can be fun and should be a part of your daily life.
If tennis is something you’re looking to try, you can adopt it as a low cost hobby. Tennis balls cost roughly $5-10 and a decent racquet can run you between $15-30. You might be able to get them cheaper at a garage sale or on Ebay.
Your neighbor or family member might even have an extra one lying around that you can borrow. I used tennis as an example because I purposely like to practice certain sports in the off season. I have found that there aren’t as many people practicing so it’s easier to gain access to the courts. Commit to trying the sport for the next four weekends even if you don’t love it, you’ll get exercise and possibly save money in the process.
If you’re looking to spend less to free up cash, swap out an activity you would normally spend money on each weekend. For example, If you typically spend 50 dollars on lunch out or on other activities every Saturday, replace that activity with your new inexpensive aerobic activity for the next four Saturdays, you will save 200 dollars (remember you have to actually put that money in the bank that you didn’t spend) and get in an aerobic workout. This way, you’ll still have something to do and you’ll spend less money by default.
2. Benefit from turning aerobic activity into a hobby.
Studies show that hobbies have many benefits. A recent article by a professor at Southern Illinois University explains that “participating in leisure activities contributes to your physical and mental health and overall life satisfaction.” So why not kill two birds with one stone and turn your aerobic activity into a hobby?
Zumba is my hobby. I never expected to like it when I first started. When it first came out but wasn’t fully committed to it. I thought it was enjoyable but I could take it or leave it. After attending some classes with different instructors, I felt differently about it. I still can’t say I know all of the steps perfectly but being able to keep pace for the most part is enough to make me keep going.
Gym prices will vary. I have seen it offered in recreation centers for a lower rate. You can also just follow videos on Youtube to get the basic steps down or allow that to become your routine for free. Whether you do it at home or at a workout facility, it truly is a fun way to exercise.
3. Getting healthier can be rewarding.
As much as I know I feel better when I’m doing the right thing for myself health-wise by working out, sometimes good behavior can still feel a little thankless when unnoticed. The approval seeker in me wants to be acknowledged a bit. A little pat on the back can go a long way. I realized I’m not the only one who thinks this way. A recent survey by John Hancock shows that 87% of the respondents surveyed believe that life insurance policyholders should be rewarded for making healthy choices.
After compiling this feedback, John Hancock’s now offers an incentive-based program that supports healthy lifestyle choices. It now offers reduced premiums on certain life insurance policies as well as other benefits for policyholders. For example, tracking your steps can pay off by incorporating wearable technology. Participants can receive rewards and discounts from brands such as Amazon, Hyatt and REI. Get rewarded just for walking, running or other physical activities. Scheduling regular check-ups, getting a flu shot or health screening also qualify for making positive decisions when it comes to your health. To see if this is available in your state, check out JHRewardsLife.com for full details.
I received compensation in exchange for writing this post. Although this post is sponsored, all opinions are my own.