On the Money

Lately we have all been counting our pennies more so than usual with this "recession" we keep hearing in the headlines. It has made us stress out and depressed. Does this mean we need to cut back on Pilates? No way! I'm here to teach you how tone up your body while continuing to grow your piggy bank.
At the Gym
Check out if they offer Pilates. Places such as your local YMCA has memberships that range from $30-$90 a month (ask about financial assistance to find an affordable payment plan). Some locations offer fitness classes included in your membership fee or you may have to pay about $30 for a 8 week session (less than $5/class!). This is more than affordable for a busy family. The kids can be at swim class or gymnastics lessons while you get in your workout. Multi-tasking was never so simple!
Another example could be at Lifetime. Go online to find a free week pass to check it out and test out the classes to make sure they're a good fit. Most locations are open 24-hrs and provide childcare. You can even get your cardio in before you head off to work. This option may be a little more pricey at $50-$100/month dues, but usually there is no contract while means you pay as you go.

At a StudioYour best option is to learn Pilates at a studio which will ensure more one-on-one attention and variety with classes (Check out the studio finder to locate one in your area). Depending on the type of class, costs will range from $15-$75 a session. Mat classes tend to be more budget friendly compared to private sessions. Unlike a gym, studios offer a wider range of props such as Magic Circles or Foam Rolls which can enhance your workout making it worth the extra bucks. Use of traditional equipment such as the reformer will speed up your progress quicker than mat classes alone.
Keep in mind a studio doesn't have monthly dues like a gym. For example, a $100 gym monthly due can translate at a studio into 5-6 mat classes in a month! Look for discounts in purchasing packages instead of each session individually to get more for your money. Some locations offer a percentage off to students or those that attend a variety of classes. Also to help with training new teachers you may be able to save by attending classes taught by apprentices.

At HomeKnow the basics of Pilates and short on time from putting in longer hours at the office? Nothing beats the convince of your own home and you should use it! Purchase DVDs for about the price of one class session. Feel free to ask your current instructor to recommend a few (a future post will rate a few DVDs of interest). You can just pop it in and do a half hour worth to get the benefits and beat some stress. Adding a few props at home like small hand weights or bands will allow you to add in some extra arm work or stretch out your legs. Pick up ideas from classes you currently attend to take into your at home routine. 

Click here for Pilates DVDs to add to your collection. 

There is also the beauty of the internet. Almost everyone has access to a computer at their home in this day in age, so why not use it? Try out Hulu or UTube to find some quality short sessions or new moves. Most importantly, focus on a few exercises at a time to ensure you are still practicing quality over quantity in your movement.

I am in no way suggesting stick to doing Pilates in only one of these locations. Diversity is key! Do what you can afford, but remember to be consistent about your sessions. Pilates should be something you enjoy and begin to implement into your daily routine; even while sitting in your chair at work. Scooping is free no matter where you are and to me...that's priceless.