For many, the rising cost of gym memberships, extra fees when joining or cancelling and fitting time in for the gym can be off-putting, especially when the weather is less than inviting. Gavin Cowper, fitness expert and owner of Exersci has explained a simple, cost-effective alternative that allows people to burn up to 450 calories in half an hour and 13,500 calories in a month, offering flexibility and convenience without sacrificing fitness.
Gavin said: “Gym memberships can vary widely, with the cheapest starting at £24.50 a month, or £294 annually, and premium memberships reaching up to £74.90 a month, or £899 a year. The average cost of a year-round gym membership is around £600.
“If your main goal is to burn calories, going to the gym and using the equipment there might not always be the most efficient choice. According to Harvard Health Medical School, a 30-minute weight lifting session will only burn around 224 calories for a male of average build (84kg) and 180 calories for a female of average build (69kg).
“Skipping is a cost-effective way to burn calories. For just £1, you can burn around 300–450 calories in 30 minutes. Over a month, skipping for half an hour daily could burn between 9,000 and 13,500 calories, making it a great fitness option for those who can’t spend a lot or have the space for large equipment.
“Compared to the average gym membership, which costs around £600 annually, using a skipping rope saves you £599 while delivering the same (if not more), calorie-burning benefits.
“One of the biggest advantages of skipping is its minimal storage requirements. A skipping rope takes up almost no space, making it ideal for those with limited room, whether at home or on the go. Skipping offers unmatched convenience. You can do it anytime and anywhere, whether at home, in the park, or while travelling, making it perfect for those with a busy schedule or limited access to a gym.
“Unlike many fitness activities, skipping doesn’t require a personal trainer. With just a little guidance, anyone can get started, making it an accessible workout for all fitness levels.
“Skipping is suitable for everyone, from beginners to advanced athletes. You can start with basic jumps and gradually increase intensity, making it a versatile exercise that can be adapted to your fitness journey.”