As summer hits the District, this seems like a really good time to talk about getting into shape and saving some money doing it. While working out does have some costs, there are many free or affordable options to get some exercise.
Jogging is one free option, and in the District, there are many trails that offer great scenery, allowing you to enjoy your run. You can run along trails at Embassy Row, Beach Drive, the C&O Canal, Rock Creek Park, and of course, the National Mall. Trails will be more packed on summer weekends (especially the National Mall) but running during the morning should make it less crowded. Another option is to see about joining a fitness club. There are many options in the District. Many DMV employees have facilities available to them through work, and many employers who don’t offer a gym have some sort of subsidized membership with a fitness chain. Companies benefit from subsidizing the cost for their employees because it helps them by keeping their employees healthy, meaning fewer sick days used and more productive employees. It can also help reduce health-care costs.
Another option, if your employer won’t be able to help you, is to join the YMCA. There are several locations in the Washington, D.C., area, including the YMCA Anthony Bowen at 1325 W Street NW. You can call them at (202) 232-6936. They are affordable, with family memberships, and they offer financial assistance if costs are an issue. Another fitness club that is very affordable if money is a major issue is Fitness Evolution in Fort Washington, Md. Their basic memberships start at $9.99 a month. Of course, you may wish to spend your exercise time outdoors, and there are many options to choose from: biking (many of the running trails mentioned earlier allow biking), or tennis and golf at many public facilities. Go to tennisdc.com, which operates public tennis courts all over.
You should definitely take the opportunity to exercise. It is fun, keeps you healthy and reduces stress, and you can also have lots of fun. I hope that you have found options here that will allow you, regardless of your financial situation, to get in shape.
Arthur Johnson is a volunteer writer focusing on finance and economic issues in his column Moving Up.
