1. Instead of hiring a personal trainer or joining expensive group classes, check out exercise videos from your local library. Most have a pretty decent collection and if even they are dated, the basic and most beneficial exercises haven’t changed much. Check out a different exercise DVD each week, and you'll never get bored with your fitness routine. You can even find free exercise programs on TV or through your cable provider. (Exercise on Demand). Another cool idea is similar to a book club except it’s with workout DVDs, trade your P90X for your friend’s Toccara’s Fabulous Workout DVD.  (Cost = $0-15, assuming no late returns)

2. Take Steps Instead of the Elevator. There’s nothing new under the sun and I’m sure you’ve heard this before. However, this is a very effective exercise that can be incorporated into almost anyone’s life. Climbing one level of stairs burns as much calories as walking 5 times that distance. So skip the elevator and take the stairway to fitness! (Cost = $0).

3. Cleaning your house shouldn’t be work work; it can be an enjoyable exercise. Get out those cleaning supplies; your Swifter Sweeper and then buff, wipe and dust your way into shape. The pay off: burn calories and then lay back and enjoy a clean home. Also, if you’re someone who hires a maid, this can save you upwards of $65 per week. (Cost = $15 for supplies).

4. Walk it Out! It’s the simplest way to stay in shape. Everyone does this everyday, but depending on where you’re located, not nearly enough.  Most experts say you should walk 1-2 miles per day to stay healthy and at a brisk pace. The best bet to track your progress is with a pedometer (Cost ~ $25) and aim to walk 10,000 steps every day. The next time you’re at the grocery store and you see a parking spot right in front, drive past it and park a little farther away and walk the extra distance. The time you spent walking can be the time spent planning your healthy meals for the week.

5. Buy Used Equipment. If you do want to use weight lifting or other fitness equipment, don’t buy retail. Check with friends and family who probably have unused or stored exercise equipment they don’t want anymore. You can also check out community sites like Freecycle and Craigslist, for heavily discounted or even free equipment. Two inexpensive basics to begin building your home gym; the exercise ball (Cost = $25-40) and the jump rope (Cost = $10). Both will save you time and money and the ability to work out in the comfort of your own home.

6. Avoid Junk Food and Shop Smart. Eating junk food while you’re busy or traveling is a serious culprit for being out of shape and unhealthy. You can kid yourself that it’s cheaper than real food but the long term costs to your health and savings are much higher. With a little planning you can transform your diet to include mostly healthy foods; plan out your meals for the week. Cut or get coupons online for the healthy items. Lastly, go to the grocery store when you ARE NOT hungry and earlier in the morning to save on purchasing the unneeded impulse buys.

7. Take advantage of local parks and community recreation programs. Check with your local center to find out what programs they have to offer. This could range from low-cost exercise and wellness classes to free gym access. Best of all you could meet like-minded people, people who want to look good and get fit and healthy.

8. Use the Internet to help find to help find fitness clubs or groups in your local area. For example: Google search running clubs in your area and you will find various clubs that are free or little cost. Things like the Nike Run Club are a great way to save while also maintaining the motivation through the group camaraderie.

9. Like Lady Gaga says, “Just Dance.” Grab your ipod, favorite CD or turn on a TV music channel and get your body in motion. Dancing is great exercise – and it doesn't cost a dime. (Unless there’s an entrance fee for the club.) Or groove at home! Get the kids involved and make it a family dance affair. It also helps to wear out the little ones and get them off to bed early!

10. Got kids? Put them in the stroller and take them for a walk. If it is raining and cold, walk indoors. Form a group and get to stepping!

With summer rapidly drifting away, now is as good a time as any to refocus on your health if you slipped over the last few months (or years!). Use the above tips to jump start your road to better health, wealth and happiness.