She Strengthens

The High Cost of Getting Fit

Last summer, I took the plunge and joined Weight Watchers, determined to shed 40 pounds and adopt a healthier lifestyle. As a marketing professional with a sedentary desk job and a love for brunch, I knew it wouldn’t be easy. But what I didn’t anticipate was the significant financial burden that came with my weight loss journey.

The Hidden Costs of Weight Loss

From fitness classes to workout gear, new clothes, and supplements, the expenses added up quickly. Here’s a breakdown of every dollar I spent in pursuit of my goal:

• July: Prorated Weight Watchers membership ($19.95) and August membership ($44.95) = $64.90
• August: Polar heart rate monitor ($59.89) and green tea ($8.18) = $113.02
• September: Gymbook app ($3.99), supplements ($85.98), workout tanks and jeans ($54.48) = $189.40
• October: New work clothes from Nordstrom ($223.80), supplements from GNC ($41.99), and fancy workout clothes from Athleta ($279.99) = $590.73
• November: New bra from Nordstrom ($68), bra from another retailer ($23.55), shipping old clothes to a friend ($44.15), jacket and vest from Columbia outlet ($80.86), athletic socks ($12.49), green juice from Whole Foods ($4.95), leggings and jeans ($94.00), and monthly yoga membership ($38.00) = $410.95
• December: Winter coat from Columbia ($169.99), workout tanks from Target ($14.51), sports bra from Nordstrom ($68.00) = $252.50
• January: Road ID bracelet ($25.96), monthly yoga membership ($50), money back from Adidas ($6.99), long-sleeve running shirts from Athleta ($70.77), sweaters and lounge pants from LOFT ($48.00), fleece pullover and jeans ($51.00), and Weight Watchers membership ($44.95) = $283.69

The Grand Total

Over the course of six months, I spent a whopping $1,905.19 on my weight loss journey. While it’s a significant amount, I’m proud to say that I didn’t take on any debt and managed to stay within my budget.

Lessons Learned

Looking back, there are several ways I could have saved money. I didn’t need all those supplements, and fancy workout clothes weren’t necessary. However, I did manage to cut costs in some areas. I used the gym in my apartment building, the treadmill at my office, and outdoor activities to get my cardio in. I also sold or consigned old clothes to recoup some of the costs of rebuilding my wardrobe. And, I significantly reduced my Starbucks habit.

The Biggest Change

The most notable change, however, has been in my food costs. Before starting Weight Watchers, my monthly food costs averaged $532.15, with 57% going towards restaurants. After joining the program, my monthly food costs decreased by 14.58% to $454.59, with a significant reduction in restaurant spending and an increase in grocery shopping.

Was it Worth it?

As I reflect on my journey, I realize that the cost was worth it. I feel stronger, prouder, and more confident than ever before. Of course, I could have spent that money on other things, like a vacation or adding to my emergency fund. But for me, the benefits of my weight loss journey far outweigh the costs.