Swimming burns more calories than running and builds muscle mass! Do you have a pool, a lake or even an ocean around you? If so, this is a cost effective workout and does not require a home fitness gym. Resistance bands can be used in the pool as well and is a perfect example of cheap fitness equipment.
For fitness shoes you should pay a visit to training clients the local second hand store. Now I know you are thinking that used shoes are gross and you are probably right. But, what you will find at these second hand stores is that some of the clothes (including shoes) have tags on them still and thus have not been used!
eBay is a great resource for cheap fitness equipment. Just be sure to investigate the seller’s rating and their shipping and return policies before you buy.
Display units at department stores or local fitness stores are usually good buys. These pieces of equipment may have a cosmetic flaw or two but may be marked down considerably.
The big box stores like Wal Mart and Target have some good deals as well. These stores typically operate on low profit margins so you need to check them out.
Craigslist and your local classifieds are good resources as well. Truth be told a great deal of fitness equipment goes unused and then is often sold to someone else. Why can’t you be that someone else?
Now before you make purchases of fitness equipment jump online and research the product(s). There is no point buying ineffective equipment that can also lead to injuries. You want to research reviews, warranty, programming options, safety/comfort features, and difficulty settings.
Even if you have to purchase new equipment there are some core pieces that are not costly. These include barbells, gym balls, weighted vests, resistance bands, and pull-up bars