Fit body, tight budget

We'd all like a slim, toned body, but we can't all afford gym membership fees. However, there are lots of low cost ways to exercise and some of them are even free.

Walking

The most obvious form of exercise we can all do anytime anywhere is low impact, so the risk of injury is minimal and all you need is a comfortable pair of walking shoes. You can have a laugh walking with a mate or you can fit it into your daily schedule for example, walk part of the way to work. On a note of caution, always tell someone where you are going and do not walk on your own after dark. The same goes for running.

Jogging

Jogging and running are higher impact, so make sure you have a proper pair of running shoes. Again it's better with a friend, or a running club. If you are new to running start by jogging for one minute then walking for one minute and repeat for half an hour. After doing this three times a week for a week or two, increase to two minutes running, one minute walking. Keep increasing the amount of running at a comfortable level. Details of organized runs and running clubs can be found in magazines like Runners World.

Cycling

Look out for adverts for secondhand equipment and you can pick up an almost-new bike cheaply. You will need to make a one off investment in safety stuff, like a helmet and reflective stripe. Cycling is also a handy mode of transport and can save you a fortune in fares or petrol. You can do your weekly shop at Sainsburys with a rucksack then cycle home, intead of splashing out on taxis.