Times are tough, and some of us may be wondering if we can afford to keep our gym memberships. However, we know that staying active is one really good way to deal with stress. (Remember, if you do the math, a monthly membership can be cheaper per day than a latte!) A lot of gyms are lowering rates or offering deals, so be sure to ask at yours. In any case, I thought I would put together a list of my favorite cheap/free yoga and Pilates resources to share with all of you. These are a good way to get started if you’ve always wanted to try, and a good way to keep your routine interesting if the elliptical just isn’t doing it for you, or if you really have to give up the membership. Please don’t consider this an exhaustive list. These are just things I’ve found and tend to like. I’m sure there are others out there. You should also not be afraid to check out your local yoga or Pilates studio to get some consultation from professionals. Many studios offer deals, especially now.
Yoga Today
Free 60 minute yoga classes daily, streamed through the website. There are different teachers, each with a different style. Some teachers and classes are more intense than others. You can search classes by level, and if you don’t know what you’re doing, the video and the clear explanations are great.
YogaMazing video podcast
These podcasts are short (15-30 minutes) and a really good introduction to various poses. Chaz, the instructor, takes a lot of viewer feedback into consideration when he’s putting classes together. Each week has a theme (yoga for runners, yoga for stress, etc) and a class can be a quick way to fit a workout in if you’re pressed for time. Sometimes I do a couple episodes together, too. If you go for this, you should beware of Chaz’s ridiculous puns. (Who knew there were so many possibilities for joking during a yoga class?)
Yoga to the People
Yoga to the People is a donation-based studio in the East Village. There is also a location in Berkeley, CA. If you’re nearby, definitely check out a class. YTTP also has a podcast available through iTunes that I love. It’s a 60-minute Vinyasa class, so be prepared to work hard. The podcasts are audio only, so if you’re a beginner and/or learn better visually, they might be a little tough to follow.
Pilates on Fifth
I just found the Pilates on Fifth podcast through iTunes the other day (are you seeing a trend here?) and I really like it. There are short (2-3 minute) video clips that go over specific exercises, as well as longer (10 minute) sequences that work a particular muscle group. I also found a 30-minute mat workout that left me feeling my core for the rest of the day. I’ve never visited the studio, but according to the website, classes are available in packs. It’s a little pricey (at least for me), but it could be a good option if you want to try it out with the help of a professional.
Time Warner On Demand
I don’t have cable, but someone was telling me the other day that Time Warner has all kinds of free exercise classes free On Demand. You can get your cable and your gym membership at the same time!
I’m always on the lookout for ways to exercise cheaply and keep things interesting, so if you have some ideas, feel free to post them!
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Yoga podcasts? brilliant. thanks!