Healthy living can come in many forms, and in most cases, it’s better to work small good habits into your daily routine rather than do a major overhaul all at once. This will help to ensure that you’re able to maintain those habits instead of burning out quickly, but where do you begin? 

For some, it starts with a more balanced diet; for others, it’s all about working activity into their schedule. Read on for a few budget-friendly tips on how to stick with positive habits throughout the year.

Start with the right tools

Whether you’re a seasoned runner or want to stay in shape between classes, create a routine that will be easy to stick with. It’s difficult to do that if you don’t start out with the right tools, but you don’t have to spend a bundle. There are several free or inexpensive fitness apps available to help you keep track of everything from your steps to the number of calories burned, and these can also keep you motivated to push ahead when you’re feeling tired. Don’t forget about your device and accessories; if your phone or smartwatch is an older model, it might have trouble running certain apps. Look for trade-in discounts or sign-up deals that will provide you with the best tech for the lowest price. 

Get comfortable with your workout

No matter what sort of workout you choose, there will be days when you’re crunched for time, or maybe the weather just won’t cooperate. For these times, it’s a good idea to have some resources at home so you can still fit in some activity. You don’t have to break the bank to create a home gym; rather than choosing large pieces of machinery, look instead for inexpensive options such as a yoga ball, some free weights, a resistance band, and/or some “fun” tools, such as a jump rope or hula hoop. You can also ask a friend or family member to join you; after all, fitness is more fun with a buddy. By making fitness more accessible, you’ll be able to keep up with your workouts.

Manage your diet the right way

Like working out, many people find it challenging to make healthy changes to their diet without sacrificing too much time or money, but there are a few simple things you can do to eat better without causing disruption to your schedule. Rather than throwing out all the junk food in your pantry, start by making small changes. Pack snacks like popcorn, string cheese, dried fruit, granola, and nuts to keep at your desk at work rather than hitting up the vending machine, or try an old favorite recipe with a new variation, such as veggie lasagna. These small changes really add up over time and can help you stay on a better path.

It’s no secret that eating healthy can get expensive, so you might budget a certain amount for fresh items and utilize coupons, store brands, and sales for things like canned goods, dry cereal, and pasta. When you shop armed with a plan, it’s much easier to stick to a budget.

Working healthy habits into your lifestyle doesn’t have to be expensive or stressful. By starting small, you’ll give yourself time to get used to the changes and set up for success, which will help you learn to make smart choices in every aspect of your life.

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