10 ways to get fit without getting ripped (off)

We’ve had some members ask us to source discounted gym memberships for FiftyUps. We’ll see what we can do, but in the meantime here are our tips for getting fit without paying exorbitant membership fees.

1. Interested in joining a gym but keen to avoid wall-to-wall meatheads? Many gyms offer free trial sessions. Or check out sites like GymLink, where you can sign up for free introductory classes and cheap memberships.

2. Consider group buying sites such as DiscountOn, Cudo and Groupon, which regularly offer big discounts on gym memberships.

3. Lock-in contracts are so passé. There’s a new crop of fitness centres promising lower fees, pay-as-you-go memberships and more flexible opening hours.

4. In a similar vein, the booking website Fit Us In matches casual gym users to gyms with spare capacity or those on the hunt for new clients.

5. Make a splash. Exercising in the water is lower impact than plodding along above ground. If you’re aged over 50 and live in NSW, look up this pilot program. Or contact your local swimming pool to ask about classes. Even walking laps is great exercise.

6. Make screen time good for your health by doing free YouTube exercise classes. Don’t worry: they’re not all as embarrassing as this one. (If you are seeing psychedelic lights during your workout, call the doctor. Even better, get the all-clear from your medico before starting any new fitness regime.)

7. Borrow fitness DVDs from your local library. They’re free!

8. Explore over-50s fitness programs in your state or territory. South Australia has a ripper called Active Ageing Australia, offering five weekly sessions of modified recreational sports for $10. Crafty croquet, anyone?

9. Pick up preloved exercise equipment on the cheap through the freebie mailing list Freecycle or Gumtree online classifieds.

10. Do it the old-fashioned way. Build exercise into your daily routine. Take the stairs instead of the lift, arrange to meet a friend for a regular walk, work up a sweat doing the housework or gardening. Every bit helps.

What are your tips for keeping in shape? Share them with other members in the FiftyUp Club forum.