Walking Through Rocky Economic Times
by Nan Kappeler (topic expert: fitness)

Scary. Crisis. Decline. Chill. Panic. Bumpy. Devastating. These have been just a few of the words used to recently describe our economy's health in the business section of the Los Angeles Times. On the television, the news is just as gloomy each day. Stock indexes are diving to historical lows and major financial institutions are filing for bankruptcy. The number of foreclosed homes is soaring. How can we even think about our own physical fitness programs when the financial crisis is threatening our retirement?

During troubled economic times, exercise can be the first item eliminated when we are looking to scale back our expenses. During an economic pinch, expensive gym memberships, personal trainers, massages and one-on-one Pilates classes are often the first to go. But when financial matters are giving us increased stress, anxiety, tension and depression, the one item you can't afford to reduce is your exercise program. That once-a-day, one-hour session of aerobic, weight training or stretching is what helps to keep our minds and bodies healthy.

Still, there are the realities of your budget so it may be prudent to take a few minutes to re-think your fitness program. While it is imperative that you continue to exercise, perhaps you find a way to modify the expense of it.

Do you really need a full-service gym? Although the fluffy towels and soothing lotions in the locker room have been great after a hard workout, are these luxuries really worth the expense? A personal trainer definitely helps get you motivated and working hard, but maybe alternating your trainer with a workout on your own can decrease expenses. Look around your neighborhood. Try taking your 60-minute treadmill workout out of the gym to your local park.

Many forms of exercise actually cost very little money. In fact, in most cases, you don't even have to drive your car to get started. Aside from purchasing a durable fitness outfit (shoes, shirt, pants, socks and a jacket), the initial investment dollar and long-term costs are very minimal. Consider the following ways to maximize your fitness dollars and minimize your expenses.

• Walking/Running groups: Find a neighborhood group or go online to find a consistent group of walkers in your area (www.walkstyles.com) is the best place to start). Most of the information and communication is done online via chat groups or direct email provides an easy way to meet other walkers and runners in your area. Cost: Free
• Online Workout Programs:There is an abundance of online fitness workouts offering routines for walking, weight strengthening, running, swimming and just about any other activity. These plans vary from beginner to advanced levels. Many websites also give extensive training information that can provide motivation and tips on meeting other people in your area with similar workout interests. Cost: Free
• Magazines/Newspapers:Great workout ideas, motivation, diet tips, weight training programs that are often available in your daily newspaper or a magazine that is already being delivered to your home. These publications can offer a wealth of information that is easily accessible. Check out local resources in these publications, like classes, recreation centers, trails and group meetings. Cost: Free or minimal subscription fees
• Community Activity/Recreation Centers:Most cities operate community centers that offers low-cost exercise classes. Many are geared towards the older adult or recreational athlete. Classes include strength training, water exercise, yoga and walking groups. Community centers are a great way to meet other people in your community with a similar athletic ability. Cost: Varies. Classes can range from free to approximately $10/class.
• Workplace Fitness Facilities:Many office places offer very low cost exercise options, especially larger corporations and government agencies. Gyms are more frequent at larger companies, but it's not hard to organize lunchtime walking groups or a stretching class in a vacant office. Cost: Free or low cost to employees
• Neighborhoods and Communities: Some of the best fitness opportunities are right out our front door. Check out local trails, outdoor pools and mountain bike routes. Reap the benefits of nature and a workout at the same time. Cost: Free