Topend Sports Newsletter: 16 March 2017

In this edition of my monthly free newsletter, there is only free stuff - free advice about getting fit for free, my new free home fitness testing manual and a link to a free ebook on amazon, all from your favourite free online sports and fitness resource - Topend Sports!

Getting fit is not something that should be expensive, though for many people that is what it becomes. Paying for trainers, gyms, clothing and gadgets can add up. But these are only accessories, none of that is actually necessary to make your body fitter. It can make it seem more appealing, but is not essential. 

Are you paying for motivation? Putting yourself out there and training hard takes a lot of motivation and commitment. If you can work-out without needing to pay a gym or a personal trainer to motivate yourself, then it is more likely that you will continue to do so. When things get difficult, it is your own will that is required to keep pushing yourself, support may help but it should not be the main driver.

You don't need to pay for expensive equipment. There is nothing easier (and cheaper) than going for a run to train aerobically, and workouts can become much more complex when you add hills, stairs or beach running - and you get the bonus of a bit of fresh air! For example, try these beach workouts. To get stronger, try these bodyweight exercises, or make your own weights. With just what you can find around the house, here a list of home fitness exercises.

Not having enough money to get fit should never be an excuse - not having enough time is another thing, but should also not be an excuse. If you think you have no time, it is more likely that you are not making fitness a priority. You can always find time if you really want. And the best time is now!

• Mar 6-22 World Baseball Classic, Miami, San Diego and LA
• Mar 14-24 Special Olympics World Winter Games, Graz & Schladming, Austria.
• Apr 3-9 Augusta Golf Masters, Augusta USA
• Apr 8 Grand National horse race, Aintree Racecourse, Liverpool UK.
• Apr 12-14, Cycling World Track Championships, Hong Kong