The Ultimate Frugal: Free

One of the things I first loved about summers in Crofton is their Swim & Tennis Club. I grew up in Northern Virginia and our public pools are fun, but nowhere near as convenient as this structure. I love that it is  located in a residential area, thus convenient for many to walk or bike to, and I love the simplicity of membership: tell them your name and go swim!

Well, as a newlywed last summer, my husband and I moved to North Forest Apartments (still in the Crofton triangle). Since they have their own pool, and my husband's family is significantly smaller without him, the CSTC membership was ended.

In addition to our reasonably priced rent, pool membership for all residents plus a guest pass are included. Same easy structure (it's sad to me to now think of the pools of my childhood that we had to drive to then pay cash at the window to swim), and same, if not better, convenient access (a one minute or less walk for most).

I was happy enough about this, then I found out that free water aerobics classes were offered bi-weekly as well.  Last year, it was late in the summer, so by the time we made it to a class, we ended up crashing their end of season picnic. Whoops!

Fast forward on to this summer. We've already enjoyed a dip in our pool given some of the insanely hot days we've had recently. We also made a trip to CSTC for an adult night held for club members and alumni. It was here that I noticed a sign: "Water Aerobics: $50 a session."

Wait, did I read that right? $50 for ONE session? Isn't that more than one month at many of our local gyms who likely also offer water aerobics? Ouch. I was glad to be back for a swim at CSTC, but I was very thankful for my North Forest pool and the upcoming water aerobics that are so frugally priced at $0 a session!

The first class was offered last night, and I highly enjoyed the workout and camraderie. The instructor (who is awesome, and an expert at living by the way) mentioned that she was off to teach another class after ours. Where? CSTC  (I think I've heard her mention she teaches at other local gyms as well).

So, people get classes and the teacher get pays in both cases. In each case, the host location just decided to deal with things differently. Working out is important, and finding a way that works for you is as well so that you stick to it. I love that water aerobics is low-impact yet can target your whole body, and, well, it's in the water. A win-win for me.

The lesson? Shop around. If you live in North Forest OR Carlyle, the free water aerobics are available to you (just drop in) on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 6 p.m. If you are in another complex like Keswick Park or Crofton Village, ask if they have any offerings this summer.  If you are a gym member somewhere, check their offerings. Water aerobics or a class that works for your lifestyle may be offered and included in your membership dues. Or, if you're already a CSTC member and are fine with paying per session....that's OK, too.

Ultimately, I think the best frugal is free. I'm glad I can get in shape should I choose to do so without shelling out additional funds (North Forest also offers a 24 hour fitness center). It's definitely a helpful perk when you're watching your dollars. What free perks can you take advantage of to put your wallet at rest?