When caught in a cycle of borrowing payday loans, it may feel like you're running in place. Many people borrow week after week, accruing interest and fees along the way, without ever eliminating the debt issues that inspired them to seek a payday loan to begin with. Unlike a fitness treadmill, which yields the positive results of weight loss and cardiovascular fitness, the payday loan treadmill often yields the negative results of debt gain and stress.
However, this isn't always the case. When researching fitness options and gym memberships, many individuals are likely to seek out the best deals, with the most flexible contracts, best reputations, and lowest monthly payments. The same can be done with payday loans. When an unexpected financial situation arises, a payday advance can be a viable, helpful option. But, as with any financial transaction, it is wise to research the best options, making sure that the loan you receive has a clearly defined repayment contract with industry standard or lower interest and fees, and that the company you borrow from is reputable. Most importantly, a borrower must make every effort to repay the loan on time and in full to avoid the treadmill-like effects of financially running in place.
Rather than continuously spending money on loan fees and interest, a responsible payday advance borrower can free up some cash to gain access to a real treadmill, and in turn reap the health benefits. Because health problems can lead to financial hardships, including taking days off of work and the burden of medical bills, preventing health issues through regular exercise may reduce payday loan reliance. In turn, reducing financial burdens may help prevent stress related health issues. Clearly, it is a win-win situation.
Exercising is a great way to reduce health issues, including those that stem from excessive stress. When exercising, the body releases endorphins, which leads to increased feelings of well-being. The concept of the 'runner's high' is a result of this endorphin rush. Additionally, when going through the repetitions of exercise moves, such as occurs when jogging or biking, the mind focuses in on the body, causing a meditative-like state. This helps to clear the mind of worries, resulting in less stress. Lastly, exercise helps with mood disorders and sleep issues, which can in turn reduce stress. In short, exercise is good for the body and the mind. In turn, it can be good for one's wallet.
But gyms can be pricey. How can you find an affordable fitness club? As with all financial decisions, research is key.
One underutilized work perk is the gym membership. Many companies will pay a portion or all of a health club membership. If your company doesn't offer such benefits, there are other options.
Depending on your own preferences and needs, there are a variety of gym options available at all price points. Some gyms are even no contract, allowing a member the freedom to leave if the cost becomes a burden. Basic gyms, which have general cardio and weight machines but no classes or amenities, can be accessed for as little as ten dollars a month. Higher-end gyms, which offer swimming pools, racket-ball courts, saunas, massages, and classes, can cost significantly more, reaching into the hundreds. Surely, thoroughly researching membership costs and contracts is the best way to stay fit, physically and fiscally. A simple Internet search can often yield such information.
Instead of relying on payday loans to cover stress related health costs, invest in a gym membership and improve your financial and physical well-being.
