10 Fitness Items to Splurge and Save On

Splurge: 5 Fitness Items Worth Spending More On

For many, money is tight. But when it comes to these items (assuming you're in the market for them), skimping for a cheaper model might cost you more in the long run.

1. Shoes. If you've ever bought a pair of cheap sneakers and tried to run in them, you know a good pair of workout shoes is worth every cent. The proper footwear isn't just a matter of comfort—it's a matter of safety! Wearing shoes that don't correctly support the activity you're doing can lead to muscular imbalance, decreased performance and even injury or overuse. If you're just starting out with your fitness routine and aren't sure what type of kicks to buy, try on a variety of cross trainers, which are designed for multiple activities like walking, boot camp, lifting weights and being on the elliptical. Stick to name brands and splurge a little on the pair that feels the best on your foot. 

2. Sports Bras. I know, ladies, sports bras are almost as expensive as your regular bras! But, they're actually almost more deserving of the price tag, because the difference between a cheap sports bra and a quality one is huge. Most department stores now have a sports section for bras, so try on a variety of options and find one that fully supports you and is comfortable (jumping up and down in the dressing room is encouraged!). It's worth it to pay a little more for a sports bra with adjustable straps, so that it can size down as you do, too! 

3. Pedometer. Sure, you can buy a pedometer for $5, but it won't be very reliable, and will probably only work for a few months before you need to replace it. If you want to accurately count your steps, plan to spend at least $25 on a quality pedometer that comes with instructions and requires calibration. Or, go for one of the more robust activity trackers that also monitor other activities, calories burned and sometimes even heart rate. 

4. Gym Membership. While you certainly don't have to pay for a "big box" health club with every amenity under the sun, you definitely don't want to join any old gym just because it's the cheapest option. Always ask for a five- to seven-day trial membership first (which should be free). While some chains do have low rates that offer good-quality equipment, it's best to shop around. From equipment maintenance to cleanliness to the quality of the staff, most of the time you get what you pay for. 

5. Home Cardio Machines. It may be tempting to pick up the cheapest elliptical or treadmill when you're on a budget, but when it comes to buying a cardio machine for your home, you definitely want to invest in quality equipment. Do online research, go to a fitness equipment store and try out a variety of models to find a piece of equipment that is sturdy, easy to use and has a warranty of more than a year. Be sure to check out consumer reviews. Buying a good cardio machine the first time is far more cost-effective than having to buy another model after the cheap one breaks down. A high-quality model will last you for years to come, making its per-use cost much lower than a bargain-basement model.<pagebreak>

Save: 5 Fitness Items Worth Buying on the Cheap

There's no point in spending extra money if you don't have to. Look for deals on the following fitness items, and you won't go wrong, but will save a lot.

1. Dumbbells: There's not much variation between dumbbells. Sure, you can spend extra money to get them plastic-coated in pretty colors or cool-looking shapes, but if your budget is tight, the basic dumbbells will work just fine.
2. Workout Apparel: Nowadays, there is so much workout apparel on the market that's affordable and high in quality. The key is either buying the big name brands on clearance or purchasing the smaller-named brands at discount stores. Both Walmart and Target sell high-quality technical shorts, shirts and socks for low prices.
3. Small Fitness Accessories: From resistance bands and medicine balls to yoga blocks and Pilates circles, you could easily spend a whole paycheck on workout add-ons. When buying these little extras, start cheap. If you find that—after a few months—you really love and use a particular fitness accessory all the time, then you can invest in a better quality version of it (and even then, you may decide that you don't need to!).
4. Heart-Rate Monitor: Heart-rate monitors can get pricey in a hurry. However, most of the really expensive ones demand a higher price point because of advanced features (many of which the average exerciser isn't likely to use). As long as it has a chest strap, timer and a way to customize your calorie burn by entering your sex, age and weight, you should be good.
5. Yoga Mat: Hardcore yogis may disagree, but if you're someone who casually practices yoga once or twice a week or you just want a non-slip mat for stretching at home, don't bother spending more than $25 on a yoga mat. Even the cheaper mats should last several years or more with regular use. And by then, you'll have a better idea of whether it's worth splurging on a fancier model.