Mozo research discovers the real cost of getting fit in 2018
HIIT, reps, sets, leg day, rest day - these are all fitness terms Aussies will come to know once they start their New Year’s Resolution of hitting the gym.
And while it’s great news that Aussies are making the effort to get healthy, many will come to find that their waistlines are not the only thing shrinking, but their savings as well.
“Many Australians start off the New Year with good intentions of getting into shape but these good intentions can come at a high price. What many people don’t realise is that they can be significantly out of pocket if their enthusiasm for fitness runs short or if they don’t research the upfront costs involved beforehand,” said Mozo Director, Kirsty Lamont.
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According to Mozo research, CrossFit is the most expensive fitness activity, with a total yearly cost of around $3,000.
This was followed by Barre, a workout that combines Pilates, ballet and yoga ($2,600) and Outdoor Group Training ($2,444), based on a training schedule of two sessions a week.
Among the most frugal activities were fitness apps, like Sweat with Kayla which had ongoing costs totalling just $220. But luckily for Aussies who enjoy the great outdoors, rowing was the second cheapest activity with a total cost of $560.
“Mozo’s cost comparison found fitness apps offer the best bang for your buck when it comes to getting in shape. Unlike many of the other fitness activities we looked at, using an app involves very little upfront costs with a medicine ball, skipping rope and pair of weights enough to kick off your 2018 fitness goals,” explains Lamont.
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The most expensive fitness activities in 2018
| Activity | Upfront costs (i.e. apparel) | Ongoing costs (i.e. membership) | Total cost per year | Total cost per week |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CrossFit | $0 | $3,016 | $3,016 | $58.00 |
| Barre | $0 | $2,600 | $2,600 | $50.00 |
| Outdoor Group Training | $0 | $2,444 | $2,444 | $47.00 |
| Boxing | $75 | $1,665 | $1,740 | $33.46 |
| Yoga | $75 | $1,625 | $1,700 | $32.69 |
But Lamont says that Aussies looking to get fit in 2018 should not feel discouraged by the price for health and instead, look to get creative with their daily workout.
“For instance, before sinking hundreds of dollars into a new surfboard and wetsuit, check to see if you can borrow from friends or buy second hand on Gumtree until you find out whether surfing is something you want to pursue.”
However, if you’re new to the world of fitness, it can be a little overwhelming to get started, especially since you're often bombarded with options. Luckily, we’ve rounded up a couple of cheap ideas to kickstart your next training session.
Go online, first - These days, it’s rare to not be able to find something online. Youtube is now stuffed with different fitness and health videos - so we’re sure you’ll pick up a thing or two!
Train for free - Local parks often have free, outdoor gym equipment, so it might be a good idea to use this as an opportunity to switch things up on your regular morning run.
Take advantage of your lunch break - Instead of using your lunch break to go window shopping or scroll through twitter, why not go for a walk to boost your energy instead! This is also a great option for Aussies with a jam-packed schedule.
Challenges galore - Similar to Youtube, Pinterest has a number of ‘challenges’ that range from HIIT training to skipping. While these usually go for around 30 days, there’s no reason for you stop once the challenge ends!
While you work to trim your waistline, it might also be the time to plump up your savings with a high interest savings account. Our savings account comparison tool compares 212 savings account from 69 banks!