If you’re in the market for a shiny new gym membership, it may be wise to read the fine print and know your rights before agreeing to a fitness club contract. No one wants to be stuck paying for a membership they can no longer use, for whatever reason.

But if you’re revved and ready to burn a few calories, here are ten ways to get fitter while saving some cash on a fitness club or gym membership. Yay, fitness tips!

1. Scrutinize Promotions

Most gyms and fitness centers start the New Year with various promotional deals to entice new members to join. Get in the game by touring around town to find the best fitness deal for your dollars. Make a list and compare membership fees, contract lengths, termination terms, locker fees, facility offerings, class types, hours of operation, equipment types, and peak hours. If all things are equal, don’t be afraid to flex some muscle and negotiate a better rate by playing one gym’s promotional offer off another. Some gyms may have some wiggle room and will give you a discounted or promotional rate.

2. Weigh in with HR

Break free from your cubicle and head to your human resources department for information on corporate fitness passes. Chances are your employer has a group or discounted membership at a local gym. These days many companies are on-side when it comes to battling the bulge and want employees to get fit and live a healthier lifestyle. So it could be well worth your time to ask your company if you qualify for a fitness discount. Just be sure to skip the elevator and take the stairs when you visit HR. Smile.

3. Go Back to School

Ok, don’t sign up for a second (or third) degree just to score a free gym pass. Silly! If you’re a graduate from a local university or college, you could go to the head of the class and land an alumni discount. Head to your Alma Mater with your alumni card in hand and get some fitness for less. Now that’s smart thinking!

4. Get Physical with Non-Commitment Passes

Ask your preferred fitness facility or gym if they offer non-members no-commitment passes. To get you hooked on fitness many gyms offer special passes to let non-members visit on a trial basis for a few days or a week. Give these passes a go and try out the club and facilities before signing for a membership. You’ll find out fast if the club’s locations, programs, and hours of operation work for you.

5. Ask for Your Discount

Does your gym offer a family, student, or seniors discount? Many gyms want your business and will give you a discount if you qualify. Before signing the contract, be sure to bring your student card or driver’s license to prove your age or student status. Being studious, over 65-years-old, or a member of a family could carry a fitness benefit in the shape of big savings.

6. Find a Fitness Friend

If you’ve got a fitness fiend of a friend then ask to join them for a workout. Many gyms and fitness centers offer their members guest passes to entice friends to join. If you’ve got a friend with membership benefits at your gym of choice, ask for a guest pass to try before you buy.

7. Get a “Specialty” Membership

It makes little sense to pay for a pool pass if you only want to use the weight room. So ask for a specialty membership to restrict your use (and user fees) to only the activities you want. Many gyms offer “add-on” fitness fees for squash courts, weight rooms, hot tubs, classes, and pool.

8. Go Off-Peak

If you work flexible hours, then you could avoid the gym lunch rush by opting for an “off-peak” membership pass. Many popular gyms offer a less expensive membership option if you’re willing to sweat it out during the daytime or on weekends.

9. Check Out Your Community Recreation Center

Consider skipping boutique and fancy fitness memberships altogether by choosing to work out at your local community center. Many community centers offer affordable monthly and drop-in rates, making it cost-effective to choose only the classes you want without all the extra initiation or towel fees. Depending on where you live, your YMCA/YWCA may also offer affordable membership rates to help you keep costs down.

10. It’s Fun to Volunteer at the YMCA!

I’ve never tried this, but a few of my friends earned a free YMCA fitness pass by volunteering their time at the YMCA/YWCA. Spending a few hours a week giving facility tours could land you an all-access fitness pass without tapping your wallet. Besides, if you’re going to spend time working out, adding an extra hour to your gym visit is not an impossible task to accomplish.

If spending even a dime for a gym membership blows your budget, then check out these 10 Frugal Ways to get Fit this Winter and even 10 Free Ways to get into Fitness this Summer. My free Printable Workout Log has also been insanely popular this week.

Your Two Cents: Got a frugal way to cut the costs of a gym membership? Ever get caught by surprise fitness club fees?

	397 Ways to Save Money Spend Smarter & Live Well on Less By Kerry K. Taylor

It’s no secret that losing weight and getting fit takes effort, and it’s easy to succumb to those flashy advertisements promising you’ll drop those pounds fast just by dropping a few bucks on some product. Don’t believe the hype.

There are endless ways to get fit in the colder winter months without spending a small fortune. Chaya Cooperberg, from the fabulous Home Cents Blog, explores numerous frugal fitness methods in Getting fit on a budget.

If you’re looking for a free download, then burn some winter weight (smirk) by downloading my free eBook The Insider’s Guide To Frugal Food & Fitness! and then grab a copy of the Free Printable Workout Log. If you live in a warmer climate, then a winterized workout isn’t going to get you snow — so check out these 10 Free Ways to get into Fitness this Summer

Now lets get on with some fun ways to get frugally fit by embracing winter! No gym memberships or wallets required!

1. Go Snowshoeing

Go ahead and grab that set of snowshoes from your basement (or borrow them from a neighbor) and go for a stroll in the snow. Snowshoeing is a butt-busting workout that requires strength, agility, balance, and stamina to make it from Point A to Point B. Besides, walking in snow is hard work. I’m breaking into a sweat just thinking about.

Yes, you may fall on your arse. Yes, your dog may look at you funny.

But getting back on your feet and experiencing nature is most certainly a lot more fun than hitting that stair climber at the gym.

If you’re stuck for a pair of snowshoes, then check out your local outdoors shop for an inexpensive rental. Some stores may sell you last year’s model for cheap if you end up loving that levitating on the snow feeling.

2. Build a Snowman

Roll with it and build a snowman, a snow-woman, or a snow-gender-neutral-person in your yard. Smile. Making snow-people is a super fun activity for families so bundle up your bunch and get outside. Don’t forget to garnish Mr. Frosty with a corncob pipe, a button nose, and two eyes made out of coal.

Photo: flickr/lululemonathletica CC-Attribution

OK, what the heck is a corncob pipe? I swear, I spent my youth singing that dang Frosty the Snowman song and I’ve NEVER, ever, decorated my snow-people with corncob pipes. Have you? Anyantismokingblogger, if you’ve got some really nice deep fluffy snow then try building a snow fort, a snow sculpture, or even an igloo for giggles.

3. Play Pickup Hockey

Grab a group of guys (or gals) and head outdoors for a game of hockey. A game of pickup hockey is a great way to chill with friends while getting exercise. Being a Canadian, in Canada, where hockey is a Canuck rite of passage, I’ve found games played on the street, in backyards, and on local outdoor rinks. This game can literally be played anywhere, at anytime, without a lot of equipment. Sure, you’ll need a stick, perhaps a puck or a ball, a pair of boots or skates, and some face protection for the goalie. You don’t need nets though — just grab a couple of garbage cans to mark the goal. Yes, we Canadians can rig a hockey rink out of anything, I suppose.

4. Walk the Dog, Go for a Hike

If your dog is fat, it’s probably because you need more exercise — so take your mutt outside for a brisk winter walk or a hike. Walking is an ideal, frugal form of exercise since it requires zero sports equipment or athletic skill. And getting in a few paces everyday can add up to a lot of calories burned over the week.

If you’re looking for a step in the right direction then check out this free 12 Week Beginner Walking Program. Now step to it!

5. Throw a Snowball Fight

Did a fresh snowfall just snow you in for the afternoon? Then get your family and friends outside for a group snowball fight. Nothing gets the heart rate racing like being chased by a group of snow wielding people looking to get ya good! There’s nothing wrong with being hit by a soft fluffy flier, but if the snow is hard-packing, then maybe just build a snowman instead.

6. Go Skiing

Get bound in a set of bindings and head for the hills for some classic cross-country skiing, skate skiing, or even down-hill skiing. The cost of each of these options depends on how much equipment you already own.

Photo: flickr/eivinds CC-Attribution

So if you’ve got the gear, then don’t let it go to waste in your garage. Get out and point those skis in the right direction and get fit. If you’re ski gearless (like me), then frugal options can be borrowed, rented, or bought used. Joining a local club is an excellent way to find used gear for less since many members will have upgraded over the years.

7. Slide on a Sled, Tumble on a Toboggan!

You don’t need to be kid to play in the snow. Sliding on a sled or tumbling on a toboggan can offer miles of inexpensive fitness fun on nearby snowy slopes.

Sure, sliding down the hill is the easy part, but climbing UP is what gets you fit.

Over the years I’ve managed to slide on wooden sleds, plastic toboggans, magic carpets, and flexible flyer sleds. In university, when I was young and stupid, I even managed to fly down a wicked hill on a cafeteria tray (sorry, no photos of my silliness). But yeah, if you can find a flat surface, I bet you can make it slide on the right slope.

And kids like to slide too, so bring them along.

8. Dig Yourself Out

If you’ve got a driveway or sidewalk covered with snow, then be nice and clear your ice. Shoveling yourself out of the deep is hard physical work, so if you’re not used to heavy lifting then be easy on yourself and take your time.

When the snow is too dense to dig, then get your family and neighbors to help. Many hands make light work.

9. Ice Skating

There’s nothing like gliding on a pair of skates, feeling the breeze blow in your hair, and then falling flat on your a$$. Been there, done that, and loved every minute of it.

I learned the fine art of ice skating (cough) when I lived in Ottawa, Canada’s Capital. Ottawa is home to the Rideau Canal Skateway, the world’s largest skating rink. I couldn’t have called myself a local without spending hours skating downtown, gliding to school, or stopping by the sidelines for a tasty BeaverTail — U.S. President Barack Obama approved!

But you don’t need a big canal to skate — your local rink may be perfect or an outdoor sheet of ice may be just around the slippery corner.

10. Join a Polar Bear “Swim” Club

There’s a crazy bunch of people who like to dip their dumplings in freezing lakes and waterways. Yes, these people are nuts. Yes, the gentlemen may no longer have nuts. But crazies aside, it’s kind of refreshing to take a dip in freezing waters. I’ve done it once. I’ll never do it again.

Photo: Diana Hodge McGregor

But swimming in frigid waters is a fun way to meet people and get fitter by trying to stay warm. Maybe.

So if you’re feeling the pinch in your jeans and you’re looking for a real way to get winter fit, then brave the cold and get outside with these frugal fitness ways. If you’d rather stay inside, then those Wii fitness games look like fun too.

UPDATE: Everyone keeps asking me about my dog’s booties. They are called Muttluks and have lasted us several seasons on the farm. Here’s a video of the booties in action!

If your pet is suffering with dry cracked paws, a good dollop of Bag Balm on the foot pads and in between the toes is super frugal, healing, and helpful too.

Your Two Cents: Got a fun and frugal way to bust the bulge and get winter fit?

	397 Ways to Save Money Spend Smarter & Live Well on Less By Kerry K. Taylor

Who It’s For

It’s for You! Paying too much for healthy food at the grocery store is frustrating, and spending big bucks for a gym membership is expensive. That’s where this free 92-page eBook comes in.

What You’ll Learn

In it, you’ll learn how to:

• Save hundreds at the grocery store.
• Uncover the secrets to healthy & frugal foods.
• Prepare delicious and easy recipes.
• Get recipes for frugal lunches, dinners, snacks, and desserts.
• Get fit & fab with 3 simple fitness plans.
• Track your fitness progress with a workout log.
• Get inspired with stunning photography!
• And much more…

Here’s a sample sneak peek:

Downloading Ends Soon!

This 92-page eBook is usually a special gift for subscribers only, so here’s your chance to get something super slick for super free. Subscribing to Squawkfox is free anyways. So maybe just sign up for updates while you’re at it.

If you’re already a subscriber then don’t worry. You can still download this eBook anytime!

Do you like it? If so, I have a small request!

1. Let me know. Share your feedback in the comments section below or shoot me an email.
2. Help spread the word. Pass this page around to your friends, family, and pets! (I love pets)

Enjoy! I can’t wait to hear what ya think!

	397 Ways to Save Money Spend Smarter & Live Well on Less By Kerry K. Taylor

Taking simple steps like keeping an emergency preparedness kit can help you survive the aftermath of a fender bender or even something worse. A car crash sure isn’t my idea of fun, but through my own car accident ordeal I’ve found these 14 things to do before and after a car accident can help you get your motor running again – even if your car is a total write-off. Hugs.

1. Stay in Your Car and Stay Calm

Right after impact my “better half” swung open the door to “see” what was going on. I grabbed his leg and told him to sit still inside the car. I think I made the right decision. The number of cars rubber-necking at our accident or driving past at highway speeds was dangerous, and could have hit us if we walked about in a confused state. Sitting still and waiting for the airbag gas to clear (those things make a mess) gave us some time to collect our thoughts, thank a higher power for our teeth and toes, and discuss what to do next.

In our situation our wrecked car was on the side of the road after the engine cut out, so we weren’t in danger of being hit on the highway by oncoming traffic. If your vehicle is still operable and you don’t have any serious injuries after the car accident, it’s a good idea to drive your vehicle to the side of the road to avoid another crash. If your car cannot be moved, I think it’s safer to just remain in your car with seat belts fastened and hazard lights turned on until help arrives. At this point you may be in shock and unaware of any injuries, so sitting still could prevent further health issues. If your car is on fire, it’s probably safest to vacate that vehicle if you can.

2. Report the Car Accident

As soon as the airbag gas clears and you’ve located your cell phone, call the police and 911 – or your emergency assistance equivalent. After our accident I didn’t dial these essential digits since the fellow in the other vehicle was first to his cell phone – I was still chocking on airbag gas.

After the essential emergency digits have been dialed, do stay at the scene of the accident until the police have questioned and reviewed the incident getting your description of what happened. Be prepared to wait a bit for the emergency authorities to arrive, the real world isn’t as quick to respond as those on television dramas.

Soon after the accident be very cautious about your health as not all injuries can be seen. If you or your passengers are not feeling right then call for an ambulance right away.

3. Emergency Preparedness Kit

Planning for a car accident is not a lot of fun, but it could keep you safe. Before stepping into your vehicle today consider if you travel with the essential emergency tools that could keep yourself well in case of a car crash. Here’s a basic emergency car kit list:

Basic Emergency Preparedness Kit

• cell phone
• disposable camera
• pen and paper
• medical information card – detailing insurance numbers, allergies and conditions that may require special attention if you are not conscious.
• contact names and numbers: emergency numbers and relatives contacts
• first aid kit
• small road cones, emergency flares
• Mylar blankets

After a flying truck wheel hit our car, I quickly discovered I was not fully prepared for a car crash. I didn’t have my cell phone, we would have loved some small road cones to set around our car to alert passing drivers of the accident, and a Mylar “space” blanket would have kept me warm. After the accident my body temperature dropped drastically and I got very cold waiting for the police to arrive.

There are many companies who put together “Road Assistance Kits” boasting several pieces and gadgets. Many of these kits are pricey and contain cheaply constructed tools so beware if you’re looking for an all-in-one safety solution. A better approach may be to purchase only the items you need (like booster cables, LED flashlights, and bandages) and spend a bit more for quality tools. The last thing you want is an essential tool to break when you need it.

4. Exchange Car Insurance and Driver Details

After an accident, always exchange driver details and take some accident notes. Be sure to use your pen and paper (from your emergency kit) to gather the following:

• name
• address
• phone numbers
• driver license
• license plate number
• insurance company and policy number

In our situation the driver’s name was different than the name of the insured on the accident vehicle – so we had to take down the details for each of the driver and the car owner. My “better half” also wrote down a description of the truck, including: make, model, and color.

5. Locate Any Witnesses

Did someone see the accident happen? Get their name and number just in case you need a witness for the accident. It’s good to know someone can speak up for you in case of a dispute.

6. Don’t Admit Fault

When you come face-to-face with the driver of the other vehicle try not to assign blame or admit fault or liability, even if you think you made the mistake. Let the police and insurance companies do their jobs and use their tools to come to a conclusion. You don’t want to admit to something in a state of shock or sadness.

7. Don’t Share Injury Concerns

If someone asks, “How are you doing?” keep a low profile by saying, “I’m shaken up”. The truth of the matter is you don’t know what is or isn’t wrong with you at this early stage. Besides, you don’t want to make statements while in shock and later have to refute them after seeking the advice of a medical professional.

8. Know What Your Car Insurance and Health Insurance Covers

Knowing your car and health insurance details could save you a lot of grief when dealing with a car accident scenario. It’s always better to know BEFORE an accident that you’re fully covered for ambulance trips, tow trucks, or rental cars. Check your policies for specifics and get extra coverage today for those essentials you’ll need covered if you’re injured or your car cannot make the drive home.

9. Photograph and Document the Accident

Be sure to carry a disposable camera in your emergency kit to photograph the damage to all vehicles. If your cell phone has a built-in camera – then you’re good to go. Take photographs of the damage to your car, the other driver’s car, and the entire accident scene to give perspective of the event. Take wide shots of tire skid markings to show vehicle travel paths. Photographs showing the entire accident can help you make your case to claims adjusters if there is a dispute.

10. Seek Medical Attention

Luckily my “better half” and I didn’t require an ambulance after our accident. But after our car was towed away we did seek medical attention to check over our necks, backs, shoulders, and general health. As small as an injury might seem at the time, get all health concerns documented sooner rather than later. Many injuries will start off as minor pains (like whiplash) which if not taken care of properly could get worse over a few short days. Besides, getting a doctor to document EVERYTHING sooner can only help any insurance claims you need to make later.

11. Report Accident To Your Insurance Company

As soon as your stomach has settled and you’ve gone to the doctor to get checked over, call your insurance company to report the accident – even if the damage seems minor or the other driver wants to settle without making an insurance claim. Seemingly small fender-bender car accidents can reveal major damage later on – like a bent car frame – so get your insurance company in the know sooner or you might be without coverage when you really need it.

12. Call Your Lawyer

I squawk you not. While our car was sitting on the side of the road leaking some funky engine liquid stuff, my “better half” called his lawyer and asked specifically what else he should do before the car was towed. Many of the tips in this article are from that call. Getting your legal beagle in the know sooner may help you get the most from an insurance claim and help you see more clearly when everything seems a mess.

13. Remove Belongings from Car

If you’re well-enough to walk away from the wreck and it’s safe to do so, then don’t forget to remove your valuables from your vehicle before it’s towed. Rescue any driving gadgets, insurance papers, repair reports, receipts, purse, wallet, or music before leaving your keys with the tow operator.

14. Be Thankful

After our accident I was very thankful to still be alive with my “better half” in one piece. Sure, our car is a complete “write-off” but vehicles are just stuff. People are priceless. Try the best you can to be thankful for what you have today, not for what you lost.

Got anything else to add to this list? Your wise words may help thousands.

	397 Ways to Save Money Spend Smarter & Live Well on Less By Kerry K. Taylor

Car safety is important stuff to think about during a car crash, but it’s probably more important to think about car safety BEFORE spending your hard-earned cash on a car. The price paid for a car with a high safety rating doesn’t necessarily mean a higher price tag. For example, let’s compare the price of two small cars rated the same by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).

2009 Honda Civic & 2009 Toyota Corolla
Both are IIHS Top Safety Picks for 2009 and rate the same.

Similarly equipped (2009 4 door sedan, manual transmission), the MSRP of each vehicle in CDN is:

Toyota Corolla CE: CDN $14,835
Honda Civic DX: CDN $16,990
Difference: CDN $2,155

In the United States, the Corolla and Civic cost almost the exact same, so let’s consider another set of cars for an American example.

2009 Honda Civic & 2009 Subaru Impreza
Both are IIHS Top Safety Picks for 2009 and rate the same.

Similarly equipped (2009 4 door sedan, manual transmission), the MSRP of each vehicle in USD is:

Honda Civic DX: USD $15,505
Subaru Impreza 2.5i: USD $17,495
Difference: $1,990

Whatever your country or currency, the point is price is not the key factor when looking to purchase a safer car. There are savings to be found by looking under the hood, researching safety ratings, and finding the safest car for your family.

Finding Car Safety Ratings in Your Country

Sure, price is important. The car might be the right price and perfect size for you family’s needs, but are your car’s safety features likely to protect you and your passengers? Is your car likely to harm others on the road? Here are some key features to consider when looking to buy a new or used car:

• Your Country
• Driver Safety Features
• Passenger Safety Features
• Child Safety Features
• Driving Condition Features
• Class of Vehicle
• Year of Vehicle
• Vehicle Maintenance
• Crash Avoidance Features
• Crash Protection Features

… and the list goes on…

The “safety features” you choose when buying a new or used car depend on your personal and passenger needs. Because automobile safety features and ratings vary from country to country, I’ve rounded up a few sites to help you determine how safe is your car?

North America (United States and Canada)

• Insurance Institute For Highway Safety
• Safer Car
• United States Department of Transportation
• Partners for Child Passenger Safety (PCPS)
• Traffic Injury Research Foundation
• Transport Canada

Australia

• How Safe is Your Car?
• VicRoads Vehicle Safety
• Centre for Accident Research and Road Safety, Queensland (CARRS-Q)

United Kingdom and Europe

• Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents
• Department for Transport, United Kingdom
• Euro New Car Assessment Program (NCAP)

In hindsight, I’m happy my “better half’ did the car safety research before buying his 2005 Subaru Impreza. I’ve never been a huge fan of cars, but I’m thrilled to have walked away from my freak car crash just a few days ago. While I hope you never spend a holiday eating an airbag or watching rogue wheels spin into your direction, I do hope your car’s safety features protect you and the ones you love.

	397 Ways to Save Money Spend Smarter & Live Well on Less By Kerry K. Taylor

In the spirit of watching your wealth and health prosper this year, I’ve created this Free Printable Workout Log (exercise log sheet) to help you track your fitness sessions. You track your finances right? Tracking your fitness is the same.

How to use the Workout Log

Just download the workout log by clicking the picture or the link. Here’s how it can help you get fit:

• Stay frugal by tracking your fitness for free.
• Easily track weekly and daily workouts.
• Monitor fitness goals and achievements.
• Get trim, slim, and fit by honestly logging your exercise sessions.
• Keep a pulse on weight fluctuations, heart rates, and energy levels.
• Plan daily workout schedules.
• Track time spent exercising, distance traveled, and workout intensity.
• Have fun with fitness by using an attractive workout log or exercise log sheet.

This two-page free printable exercise log covers a whole week. So keep yourself motivated by tracking your weekly fitness goals, hours of exercise, and workout type. There’s no time like the present to start with a simple and frugal walk to get your heart racing.

Need a beginner, intermediate, or advanced walking plan? The free eBook Frugal Food & Fitness: Get fab without spending a fortune outlines three free walking exercise plans for your workout pleasure. Here’s to your health and wealth in 2009!

Do you track your workouts and fitness with a workout log? Ever trained for an event using an exercise log sheet? Do you see a correlation between your own finances and fitness?

	397 Ways to Save Money Spend Smarter & Live Well on Less By Kerry K. Taylor

While ascending a steep hill at mile 15, Simon pedaled past me with the confidence and speed only known to experienced cyclists. His uniform revealed he raced with an impressive team, far beyond my own skill level.

As he rode past he tapped my shoulder as a friendly “keep up the good work” gesture. I responded in my usual competitive way, by racing him to the crest of the hill. Simon appreciated my tenacity. He introduced himself and we became instant friends and riding buddies for the day.

By mile 50 Simon shared many of his racing stories. He bared his bicycling blunders and told of his racing triumphs. By mile 70 I was laughing so hard and having so much fun I couldn’t remember pedaling the distance.

During the ride Simon helped me improve my cycling skills by sharing his years of knowledge. We stopped a few times to practice racing drills and techniques for my betterment. Throughout the day Simon offered his time, his help, and his knowledge freely. Without ego, Simon selflessly shared himself with a stranger.

When I got terribly tired at mile 100 he let me draft in his slipstream to avoid the headwind. At mile 105 Simon kept my spirits high and encouraged me to stay strong. At mile 110 Simon summoned my remaining strength and raced me to the finish. Mile 112 marked the end to our random ride.

Simon passed away December, 2008.

I only knew Simon for 7 hours. But his impact will last a lifetime. Remembering my day with Simon is a wonderful illustration of how the best things in life are free.

	397 Ways to Save Money Spend Smarter & Live Well on Less By Kerry K. Taylor

This 55-page eBook contains new material (not available on this blog) and many easy, cheap, and healthy recipes presented with rich photography. You’ll also get three easy-to-follow fitness plans to get fit and fab without going broke. This eBook is only available to Squawkfox subscribers.

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If you have any problem downloading your eBook or you have any questions, please do send me an email via: squawkfox [at] gmail [dot] com

I hope you like this eBook! I’ve put looooots of work into making it visually stimulating and packed full of sexy deliciousness. Oh, it’s fun too!

	397 Ways to Save Money Spend Smarter & Live Well on Less By Kerry K. Taylor

My brain was boggled by this bag woman for so many reasons. My first thought was cash related. At 5 cents a sack, she spent a buck on bags! My second thought was of shock. If this bag lady shops 4 times a month, that’s 80 additional plastic bags filling our landfills every 30 days. My third thought was of horrendous horror when I figured this single bag lady is probably responsible for disposing of at least 960 plastic bags a year, just grocery shopping!

Now I’m no plastic-free angel. I’ve done my bad bag bit over the years while shopping for food. I once thought paper would be preferable over plastic, but have recently learned that pulp isn’t preferable to reusable. Now that I know better I’m determined to be better. I’ve discovered that going green by using reusable shopping bags, food bins, and baskets is simple and fun. I’ve also discovered numerous additional benefits to switching to reusable bins and bags.

Here are 50 reasons to go green and switch to reusable shopping bags and bins:

The Problem:

1. Consumer Cost. At 5 cents a bag in many North American shops, the bucks add up! Ireland pays a hefty 15 cents per bag Plastax tax. Buying a bin or reusable bag can save you hundreds over the years. While keeping costs down is a concern for many, there are more pressing plastic matters at stake!
2. Production Cost. The production of plastic bags requires petroleum and often natural gas, both non-renewable resources that can cost big production bucks over time.
3. City Cost. Both paper and plastic bags costs our cities millions. From recycling costs to processing in landfills (source).
4. Disposal and Litter Cost. In a landfill, plastic bags can take up to 1,000 years to degrade. Plastic bags don’t biodegrade, they photo-degrade, breaking down into smaller toxic pieces. Continuous management of the disposal and growth of the waste is an expensive business.
5. Ubiquitous. Everyone. Everywhere. Plastic and paper bags are everywhere. Nearly all of us use them, all the time. They are pervasive. Out of control. Disposable bags are a powerful symbol of consumerism gone mad. The over consumption of plastic and paper bags is ubiquitous.
6. Global Warming. Manufactured plastic and paper bags contribute to global warming. Paper bag production delivers a global warming double-whammy since forests (major absorbers of greenhouse gases) have to be cut down, and then the subsequent manufacturing of bags produces greenhouse gases.
7. Petroleum Depletion. It takes 0.48 MJ (megajoules) of energy to produce a plastic bag. An average car consumes 4.18 MJ in driving 1 km, or the equivalent of 7 plastic bags. We’re bagging the oil (source and source).
8. Loaded Landfills. One bag doesn’t take up much space, but millions do. Many cities are already having problems finding space for all their garbage. Reducing the volume of waste we produce means less new garbage dumps. I do indeed prefer parks over mounds of plastic.
9. Wildlife. Plastic bags are light, and can blow in the wind. They fly into trees and into wildlife habitat. Animals can consume these plastics, and perish. Plastic bags are a deadly killer to wildlife.
10. Marine Life. Over 100,000 marine animals are killed each year from plastic bags (source). Sea turtles, water birds, and other creatures mistake them for food or become entangled in them (source). In some parts of the ocean, there are six pounds of plastic for every pound of plankton.
11. Litter. We may think we’ve thrown out a plastic bag. Albeit, many blow out of trash cans and become litter. Some are carelessly tossed. They are an eyesore and scar the landscape.
12. Recycling not financially feasible. Apparently, only 1 to 3 percent of plastic bags are recycled. It costs a whopping $4,000 to process and recycle 1 ton of plastic bags, which can then be sold for a meager $32 (source). This business model is a financial failure.
13. Recycling contamination. Of those bags that do reach recycling depots, the risk of plastic contamination is high. Melting the wrong plastics together can render the batch contaminated and unusable.
14. Flooding. Plastic bags littering our cities can end up blocking storm sewers. This contributed to recent flooding in Bangladesh and western India (source).
15. Dependence on foreign oil. Plastic bags are made from oil, much of which is imported from overseas. Not depending on something coming from thousands of miles away is better way.
16. Carbon footprint. Producing plastic bags requires energy. Transporting bags to the store burns through more energy. Much of this energy is obtained by burning hydrocarbons, which releases carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gasses into the atmosphere.
17. Plastic is forever. Almost every plastic bag you have touched in your lifetime still exists in some shape or form. With few exceptions, plastic bags will take thousands of years to break down. The bag my first pair of shoes came in a couple decades ago is out there, somewhere.
18. Bag production releases pollution. In addition to petroleum, the manufacture of bags uses dyes, plasticizers, and other toxic chemicals. Many of the byproducts of their manufacture ends up in the environment as pollution.
19. Chemical leaching. Dyes and other chemicals found in plastic bags contain lead, cadmium, and other toxins that leach out into the environment (source).
20. Suffocation Hazzard. Ever read the warning on plastic bags? “This bag is not a toy and can cause suffocation of small children.” I’ve never seen this warning on a canvas reusable bag.
21. Paper bags consume more energy than plastic. It takes more than four times as much energy to manufacture a paper bag as it does to manufacture a plastic bag (source).
22. Paper bags consume forests. Most paper comes from tree pulp, so the impact of paper bag production on forests is enormous. In 1999, 14 million trees were cut to produce the 10 billion paper grocery bags used by Americans that year alone (source).
23. Paper bags do not degrade any faster than plastic. Paper in today’s landfills does not degrade or break down at a substantially faster rate than plastic does. In modern landfills nothing completely degrades due to lack of water, light, oxygen and other necessary degradation elements (source).
24. Paper bags require more landfill space. A paper bags takes up more space than a plastic bag in a landfill, but because paper is recycled at a higher rate, saving space in landfills is less of an issue.
25. It just keeps piling up. Every minute, every hour, every day. The the consumer baggage keeps adding up. Going with reusable bags can help stop the needless plastic and paper bag pileup.

The Solution:

26. Cost. Buy a few reusable bags or bins once. Reusable bags are inexpensive and last for many years, saving you money over the long haul.
27. Durability. Bins and reusable bags are strong, and can endure many shopping trips over the years.
28. Less landfills. Bins and reusable bags are not quickly consumed and disposed of in landfills.
29. Shopper incentives. Many stores offer shoppers discounts and program points for bagging with reusables. Small cents add up to big dollars over time.
30. Faster bagging at checkout. Stuffing groceries into sturdy reusable bags and bins is faster than bagging with plastic. Reusables keep their shape, can stand up, and don’t require fumbling and picking apart, like plastic.
31. Efficient transport. It’s quicker to load your car with a few bins than with numerous plastic floppy sloppy bags. It’s also more efficient to carry a few sturdy canvas bags home. Just throw then over your shoulder!
32. Comfortable to carry. Carrying a canvas bag or bin home or to your car is easier on your hands. No more plastic bag handle welts!
33. No more split or ripped bags. Plastic bags can split open, leaving a mess in the car or on the sidewalk.
34. Less food damage. Bins prevent food from rattling around in the car. Canvas bags hold their shape and keep food nestled safe, better preventing squished salad and broken eggs.
35. Hygienic. Expose yourself to less germs by using your own bins and bags.
36. Easy to clean. Reusable bags and bins can be washed and wiped clean.
37. Avoid spilled milk. Got leaky milk or defrosting ice cream? Bins keep the mess contained, and keep your car clean.
38. Keep frozen food cold. Place all refrigerated and frozen foods in one bin, stacked tightly. This keeps perishables from perishing or defrosting on longer trips home.
39. Easier sorting. At checkout, place cold items in one bin, vegetables in another. This makes unpacking foods at home quick and easy.
40. Perfect fit. Some grocery items are too big for plastic bags. Use bins or bigger canvas bags for milk, laundry detergent, and other larger bulkier items.
41. Laundry. Use bins to move the weekly laundry to the washer, and then back to the bedroom.
42. Recycling. When not grocery shopping, use bins and recyclable bags to cart cans and containers to the local recycling depot.
43. Kids stuff. Use bins to carry kid’s sports gear or toys easier in the car. Bins keep kid’s gear more stable in the car.
44. Multipurpose. Bins and reusable bags can be used for tasks beyond grocery shopping. Cart gardening gear, sort clothing, move to a new apartment – the options are endless.
45. Visually send a message. Bringing reusable bins and bags to the shops educates other consumers on better ways to carry stuff.
46. Save 25 cents per shopping cart. Pass on sticking a quarter into the grocery shopping cart and carry your wares in a bin with handles. Super easy to cart around the store, and saves you more money along the way.
47. Stackable. Bins can be easily stacked and stored in the car or in the home. Keep them out of the way until your next shopping trip.
48. Easy to stuff. Canvas bags are easy to stuff into a purse or pocket. They are easy to carry to a store or on person for quick grocery trips.
49. One less bag. By using recyclable bags and bins, you actively contribute to solving the problem by using less plastic bags. One less bag, people.
50. List your own reason. This last point is for you to decide. What have I missed? What are your reasons for saying “NO” to plastic and paper bags at the grocery store?

Do you shop using reusable bins and bags? Any challenges? Any advice? Are you more of a plastic person? Would you consider making the switch? Share your littered thoughts in the comments below!

	397 Ways to Save Money Spend Smarter & Live Well on Less By Kerry K. Taylor

Getting into fitness is lots of fun in the summer months. The sun is shining, the wind is warm, and the light stays bright till late in the night. Taking part in summer fitness is also super affordable. With warm summer days there’s no need to bundle up in expensive gyms or hibernate at home.

To get your motor running, muscles flexing, and calories burning, consider some of these affordable fitness activities. You don’t need a personal trainer to get some fun into your fitness. I’ve also included some fitness ideas help you get out the door and into the fresh summer air.

Here are 10 free ways to get into fitness this summer:

1. Walking

Don’t knock the walk! Going bipedal for 20 minutes a day is a sure fire way to get fit. Walking is an affordable and enjoyable way to burn calories, get some fresh air, and enjoy the summer months. Walking has been shown to burn anywhere from 280 to 600 calories per hour, depending on your intensity. Here’s how to fit some walking fitness into your busy day:

• Commute. Walk to school or work. If your school or employer is too far away, try walking part-way then hopping on a bus! You’ll save money on gas and get fit to boot!

• Lunch Bunch. Go for a lunch time walking break. Ask your colleagues to join you for a walking Lunch Bunch group. You may just feel refreshed for the rest of your afternoon!

• Store Stroll. Need some milk? Leave your car at home and stroll on over to your local corner store for some exercise. If you’re more adventurous, bring a bag and walk to your grocery store! Toting your food home is wicked good exercise and prevents you from buying unnecessary stuff! (Who wants to carry lots of packaged food?)

• Dog Walk. Got a doggie? Well take that pooch for a longer walk and get the benefits of a healthier heart and a happier dog.

• Supper Shuffle. Settle your stomach after your nightly supper meal with a summer shuffle. Go for a turn around the block or just down the street. Not only will your digestion thank you, but you’ll feel fitter for it.

Warning: you may just fit into your skinny jeans again!

2. Gardening

Planting, digging, mowing, weeding, or hoeing a garden all offer free summer fitness! I would not have believed this myself, but when I started my own garden this spring I couldn’t get over the energy expended just planting beans and tomatoes! By gardening, I found muscles I swear I didn’t know existed. Here are some ways to get fit for free by gardening:

• Push Your Mower. Use a “push reel mower” to trim your grassy lawn. Push mowers help you to burn calories, use muscles, and get free exercise! No gym membership required! Not only will you tame your yard and get fitter, but you’ll save money on electricity or gas by not using a powered lawn mower. Push mowers only cost about $65-$200 bucks each, so they are cheaper then energy sucking power models.

• Hand Weed. Stop spraying harmful pesticides and chemicals on unwanted weeds. Get a spade and dig out the wonky weeds by hand. You’ll be kinder to the environment and build arm muscles to boot!

• Plant some veggies. Planting tomatoes, potatoes, beans, and lettuce takes a little work but the outcome can be delicious (and nutritious). Getting a garden growing requires lots of physical movement too. Lots of standing, sitting, crouching, and bending. You may just build stronger legs and tighten your core muscles at the same time. Wash board abs anyone?

• Harvest the crop. Got a little orchard? Tomatoes have ripened on the vine? Well, bringing home the summer crop can blast the pounds away. It’s a good thing you’ll have delicious food to feed your hungry self when you’re done!

Indeed gardening encourages both fitness and food health. But the satisfaction of growing your own food is really the best part.

3. Volunteering

Looking for athletic inspiration? Want to see what certain sports are all about? Why not volunteer at a local event! Every town or city I’ve lived in hosts various running, biking, triathlon, or walking events for sport or fundraising. Local running races are an awesome way to watch everyday average people attain their goals of finishing a 5KM, 10KM, or a marathon race. Volunteers can hand out food and water, officiate, cheer, or line the course helping tired athletes to the finishing line. Not only is it fun to watch, but you’ll meet some awesome people too! Here’s how to find and volunteer for the local races in your area:

• Running Shoe Store. Lace up your runners and head on out to your friendly neighborhood running shoe store. These stores always list running races for their customers. Chances are the store manager will have a cork board with every event’s pamphlet hanging and ready for you to take home. Since every event needs volunteers, just ask the store staff for contact information. Race organizers are always delighted to find friendly help.

• Bike Store Interested in a local bike race? Then get your wheels spinning and sprint over to your local bike store. Race pamphlets will be ready for the taking. Just call the race director and offer to help!

I’ve volunteered at several sporting events over the years, and I’m always inspired after helping out! In fact, I felt so inspired after helping out at an Ironman Canada Triathlon that I actually signed-up and completed this race twice! So do try volunteering, you may just become one of those racing athletes one day!

4. Biking

If you have wheels, you will travel! Riding a bicycle is a simple and fun way to get some fitness into your life. Many cities and towns now boast bike lanes to help riders share the roads. If you’re not into city riding, why not hit the trails and commune with nature. Getting the family involved in a weekend pedaling expedition is a frugal and fun way to spend time with the kids and enjoy some summer fitness. Besides, getting the kiddies on a bike will ensure they rest well and sleep deep! Here are some ways to get some Tour de Biking in:

• Commute. Try riding your bike to work or school a few times a week. Commuting to work is free exercise, saves gas dollars, and lets you pocket your bus fare. You may just build buns of steel while saving big bucks.

• Weekend Warrior. Secure your helmet and go for a Saturday spin. There’s nothing like getting some fresh air and feeling the wind in your hair. Just be sure to wear your sunblock!

• Join a Club. There are many riding clubs to be found in various cities and towns in your area. Lots of like-minded biking babes meet up for a regular Saturday or Sunday ride every weekend. You’ll probably need some decent bike handling skills to ride with this bunch, so don’t be shy and give your local bike shop a call to find out when the train leaves town. Club riding is also an awesome way to meet new people. Many rides tend to start and end at local coffee shops, so bring your latte dollars and enjoy some fresh brew after a refreshing ride.

5. Swimming

Sometimes you need to get soaked to get skinny. Swimming is a wonderful way to float to fitness. If you have painful joints or an injury of sorts, then why not get buoyant and take the pressure of your body. If you live near the ocean or by a local lake, then get your suit on and wade into some friendly water. If your area is landlocked, then head on over to your local pool for a refreshing summer dip. Public pools will only cost you a few bucks to take a dip. You won’t get soaked by the fitness fees. Here are some ways to take a dip this summer:

• Local Lakes. If you’re lucky to live near water then why not do some laps in a local lake. It’s free and fun to swim with nature abound.

• Beach Bum. Get some sand between your toes and walk along a beach. Don’t be afraid to get your feet wet.

• Local Pool. Many regions provide residents with an outdoor pool. It’s fun to swim under the sun. The kiddies will love the fresh air too.

• Master’s Swim Club. Can’t get enough water? Call up your local swimming hole and ask about joining a Master’s Swim Club! Most clubs cater to varying skill levels so don’t fear if you’re swimming is less than Olympic standard. Many clubs are fun, friendly, and provide a coach on deck to get your technique perfected! There is a fee but your health and fitness are priceless.

So strap your Speedo on and get dunked for some swimming this summer.

6. Take a Hike

Strap your hiking boots on and go take a hike! Hiking is a fabulous way to meet friendly folks and enjoy nature. Many regions have Outdoor Clubs which will meet up and carpool for weekend jaunts. Be sure to bring your bug spray, granola bars, and sunscreen. I am always amazed with how fit one can get by walking around nature.

7. Roller blading

Want to go for a spin? Get wheeled to summer fitness by blading-up for some serious roller blading fun. All you need is some decent pavement to roll into fitness. I’ve lived in many cities where major roads are shut down on a sunny Saturday or Sunday for families to wheel around town. Roller blading is fun and frugal once you have the gear. Be sure to rent some wheels first before committing to a kit though, as this sport is not for everyone. Are you a winter hockey player? Many hockey playing dudes would be wise to get fit for winter games by rolling into summer on wheeled blades.

8. Running

Walking not your thing? Then get a move on and run away this summer. Running is an exceptional form of cardiovascular fitness. Word of warning though, if you’re not used to pounding the pavement it’s really easy to get injured. Nothing sours the summer more than an ouchy sports injury. If you’re already fit from walking, then try joining a Learn To Run program at your local running shoe store. The experts there should carefully ease you into running using a mix of running and walking to strengthen your muscles and joints. Whether you’re running or walking, both forms of exercise will get you fitter and healthier this season!

9. Join a Team!

Sometimes the best way to get fit is make it a team event! Team sports are a wonderful way to socialize, meet like-minded people, and get fit as a fiddle! Some of the most popular team sports include: baseball, soccer, football, ultimate frisbee, beach volleyball, road racing, and softball. So ask your friends if they need a spare player and hit a home run for fitness.

10. Play with your Kids

Kids are naturally energetic. Just keeping up with the kiddies can burn more calories than a marathon runner. So harness that unstoppable energy and have some summer fun outdoors with your kids. Toss a ball, throw a Frisbee, play tag, or just get silly with a game of hide-and-go-seek. You heart rate will rise, your fitness will flourish, and you will be spending time with the most important ones in your life, your family.

Summer Fun Guide: Personal Finance Network!

To read the entire Summer Fun Guide series, be sure to check out the following bloggers:

• Quest for Four Pillars is not paying excessive airline baggage fees in Tips for packing light on a plane especially if you have kids!

• Money Ning is keeping his cool in Cool Frugal Ideas to Say Away from the Heat.

• Clever Dude is keeping the kids from going stir crazy in Frugal Fun Ideas for Kids.

• Canadian Capitalist is seeing stars in Money Movies to Watch this Summer.

• Blunt Money is becoming a tourist in her home town in Planning a Vacation at Home.

Hope you enjoyed the Personal Finance Network’s Summer Fun Guide!

Time for you to share! What are your frugal summer fitness activities? What summer stuff do you like to do to keep cool under the hot summer sun? How do you keep your kids from going stir crazy? Do tell!

	397 Ways to Save Money Spend Smarter & Live Well on Less By Kerry K. Taylor