I’ll admit it, I’m a commitment-phobe. When it comes to shelling out $250 for anything, let alone a workout class, I immediately retreat back to my Pilates DVDs from 2002. However, the more I hear about these upcoming fitness trends (SoulCycle, anyone?) the more I’m intrigued to give it a second look. Although a typical membership is out of my price range, I’ve jumped at every opportunity to take these classes at a fraction of the cost. Here are my tricks for avoiding those intimidating price tags. As a bonus, you’ll now have some extra cash to buy those mesh leggings from Lululemon!
Groupon
Okay, it’s no secret that sites like Groupon, LivingSocial, etc. have numerous deals on various exercise classes and memberships. However, there’s a little more to this. Since companies have to pay Groupon to have their business deals featured, they often prefer for people to contact them directly for an offer. So instead of buying the Groupon deal itself, call the company they’re advertising and see what they have to offer. They might even give you a bonus for reaching out to them initially.
Bring a friend
Check in with local businesses about their policy on bringing newbies to tryout their classes. Often times you can earn your own free classes every time you bring someone new! Even if the company doesn’t currently follow this protocol, inquire if it is something they’re willing to consider. Trending workout facilities are always looking for ways to get potential customers hooked!
Local E-Newsletters
Many cities send out weekly e-newsletters about free fitness events and studio deals that often aren’t advertise on main sites. Sosh is another great resource for a multitude of activities including fitness and health oriented outings. For my local friends, Active Life DC https://activelifedc.com/ provides free daily fitness events occurring all over the city.
Community Events
Check your local studios to see what type of events they hold to bring in new customers. Community centers are often rented out by instructors to teach free classes, though they do occasionally ask for a small donation. Many cities are also hooking onto the https://november-project.com/, a free fitness movement that encourages people to stay active in the chill northeastern winters. Lululemon is also a huge support for community fitness and most stores provide various classes, run clubs, and mindfulness sessions free of charge. They are also always looking for customer input so if there’s a class you’d like to try (within reason, spinning bikes are probably a no-go), let them know! They want to accommodate your wishes. After all, the more yoga you do, the more yoga pants you need. Science.
Intern
This one might involve a bit more of a time commitment, but if you’ve truly fallen in love with your class of choice, it’s worth the time and effort! Many studios are looking for people to man the front desk and answer phones in exchange for free classes. Often times, you are in charge of signing people in for class and once it’s full you can sneak into the back to participate. Getting paid for downward dogging? Yes, please.
Intro Classes
If you’re unsure whether a particular class is right for you, contact a studio ahead of time to check if they offer a free introductory class. By participating in the class first, you can decide if it’s worth the monetary investment. But be honest about your experience. If you didn’t truly love the teacher, politely ask if you would be able to try it with a different instructor. If you are considering spending a chunk of money, you want to make sure they are willing to accommodate you.
If you’re really committed, you can always look into getting certified to teach one of the classes you adore. Getting paid to get your work out on is a dreamy gig! Otherwise, try out these tips and let me know how they work for you! It is possible to sweat and save.
What workouts are you willing to pay more for, if any?
I looove my heated Vinyasa flow class which is hard for me to recreate at home without numerous space heaters (don’t think I haven’t tried)! I treat myself to a drop-in class once a month and request a class pass for my birthday, which tides me over for now!
You should also check out class pass- it’s not everywhere yet but most Large US cities. It’s a $75ish/month fee that lets you take classes at participating studios. Great for anyone who likes to try new things and doesn’t want to be limited to one workout!
Such a great suggestion! I have yet to try Class Pass but it sounds like the perfect option for someone who once to try everything at least once!
I would be willing to pay more for a good yoga class, but still always love to save money where I can. I used to take them at my campus gym while in grad school and it was always crazy crowded but it was dirt cheap (like $25 a month for unlimited classes)…ah, I miss those days but I appreciate having less crowded classes and more one-on-one attention!
Great article Juliette!
I find it hard to be motivated to work out at home, but I am also a Class Pass member and I love it! I get to try lots of different studios and the hottest workout crazes all over NYC!
That sounds like a great deal!
Ohhh! I love Groupon and have been using the site for many years now. Saved hundreds of dollars on things like this. I usually head over to some Groupon that will allow me to get out of the house and try something new.
That’s a great way to use it.
I like the Groupon ‘cheat’ idea. Thanks! Hahaha.
I’m always cashing in on the free intro classes 🙂