If you’re a broke student, you might think that all hope is lost for you right now. Many broke students don’t think that it’s within their budget to be fit and healthy or even feel good for that matter. Well, this is incorrect. There are quite a few things you can do if you want to stay fit and feel good as a broke student. Below we’ll talk you through 12 of these things:
- Use A Cashback Site
First off, have a cashback site bookmarked on your browser ready to use for whatever you’re buying. You might be buying workout gear, some protein powder, or something else – whatever it is, you can get cash back for it. It may only be a small amount per purchase depending on what it is you buy, where from, and the rate, but this can add up over time.
- Use A Coupon App Before Buying Anything
Before you buy anything, ensure you look for discounts and coupons, too. One of the easiest ways to do this is by installing an app called ‘Honey’, as this app automatically looks for and applies voucher codes for you to help you get money off. You don’t have to waste any time, as the app does all the work. It’s pretty neat!
- Look On Second-Hand Sites For Items
Be smart about what you buy if you don’t need to buy it brand new. You can probably buy a ton of workout equipment, as well as workout clothing on sites like eBay and Depop. A lot of this stuff will be close to new and you’ll get it for a bargain.
- Get Into The Routine Of Working Out At Home Or Outdoors
You don’t need a gym membership to get fit. You can do home workouts with the help of YouTube videos, or even an app. You can also go running outdoors, or use a setting such as a park to get a good workout in. If you can work out in your garden, that’s probably a little better – many people prefer to get out of the house to work out as it helps them to get in the zone.
- Be Smart With The Clothes You Buy
Some people don’t realize that they have feet small enough to fit into what’s classed as kid’s shoes. The shoes are the same but a fraction of the price. If you can fit into the kid’s version, save yourself some cash – just don’t try to do this if your feet are too big, as you’ll cause issues with your feet later on.
- If You Can’t Make At Least Two Meals Out Of Something Don’t Buy It
When you’re food shopping, you need to think about how many meals you will get out of whatever it is you’re buying. If you don’t get a minimum of two meals out of whatever it is you’re buying, then don’t do it. You’ll get so much more bang for your buck this way and you’ll avoid wasting money on one-time snacks.
- Always Eat Leftovers Later
If you have leftovers, don’t waste them. Make another meal out of them for the next day’s lunch. Never waste food if you can help it!
- Focus On A Healthy Sleeping Pattern
Healthy sleep has as much to do with your fitness as working out. Making sure you’re getting 8 hours a night can be tough for a student, but it’s possible. Below you’ll find some pointers that can help you to sleep better at night:
- Stay away from technology at least an hour before sleep so you can drop off.
- Dim the lights and get into a bedtime routine that helps you to feel relaxed.
- Rather than watching TV, read a book.
- Stop consuming caffeine earlier on in the day so it’s not keeping you awake at night. Stick to caffeine-free tea as a bedtime drink if you want something other than water.
- Make sure your room is as dark as possible as the slightest light can interrupt sleep.
- Use an alarm clock that simulates sunrise/sunset so that you can drop off and wake up naturally.
- Find Ways To Reduce Your Stress Levels
Stress is common for a student, but this doesn’t mean you just have to put up with it. Finding ways to reduce your stress levels will help you both in your fitness and your studies. Here are some helpful pointers for this:
- Get into a good routine with your schoolwork so you don’t have to cram or do too much at once. Give yourself plenty of time and start in advance.
- Take regular short breaks away from the screen and technology to help you stay focused.
- Do some yoga, pilates, or another form of relaxing exercise that helps you to focus on your breathing.
- Take deep breaths. It’s simple but effective!
- Practice self-care regularly. Take a hot bath, practice some hobbies you have, etc.
- Eat Slower
When eating, don’t be tempted to wolf down your food. Take your time to chew properly and eat slowly, so that you can listen to the signals of your body telling you that it’s full.
- Don’t Ever Go Shopping Hungry
Going shopping hungry will mean spending double compared to what you’d usually spend. Make sure you eat before you go, and always make a list so that you stick to what you need.
- Make Small Lifestyle Changes
Small lifestyle changes really can add up if you’re serious about making a change. They’re great because you might not even notice that you’re getting more active. Things, like using the stairs instead of taking the lift, can be a big help. Aim to walk more if you can, even cycle if you enjoy that. Consider all of the lifestyle changes you can make and slowly begin to implement them.
How will you stay fit as a broke student? Let us know in the comments!
