Wednesday, June 23, 2010

What We Can Do to Use Less Oil & Get Fit Too.

We all agree that we all need to do a better job conserving our planet’s limited resources, but where do you begin when it comes to making your workout green without busting your budget? Here are 3 simple solutions that will easily help you get green into your workout routine without much effort at all. These eco-friendly frugal changes are easy switches that will save you time and lots of money too!
1. Join a neighborhood gym that’s within walking distance to where you work and/or live. You’ll be supporting the local economy, saving car gas, car emissions, and costly parking fees. Plus, you’ll burn more Calories walking to and from the gym.
2. If the weather is fine, walk outside—it’s free. Did you know that out of all motorized pieces of fitness equipment, treadmills use the most energy? Try holding up to 2 pound dumbbells, which will help tone and sculpt your shoulders while increasing your Calorie burn by approx. 33%. According to www.treehugger.com, a treadmill uses around 1500 watts every hour or the equivalent of 15 of those old-fashioned light bulbs. And, over 1 hour, treadmills use the same amount of power to light up your Christmas tree for 12 hours. Treadmills also pump out about 4 pounds of CO2 per hour.
3. Use organic cotton and/or bamboo, or reclaimed fabric towels. Lots of discount retailers sell eco-friendly towels, such as organic cotton, bamboo, or organic cotton-bamboo blend. For example Bed, Bath, and Beyond, www.BedBathandBeyond.com, a nationwide retail store, sells them for reasonable prices. They routinely offer 20% coupon specials, which make the towels even more affordable. And, bamboo towels are extremely soft, luxuriant, and surprisingly absorbent.

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