Slim Body. Fat Wallet.

It’s easy to pack on the pounds as we age. More than half of all Americans are overweight, thanks in large part to the automobile, desk jobs, and having access to large portions of tempting foods. However, getting fit and staying healthy has been shown not only to be good for our overall well-being, but also for our bank accounts. Save big bucks on exercising by following this thrifty advice:

Take the stairs. Don’t want to be the sweaty guy at work? Who cares — this is a very effective exercise that can easily be incorporated into most people’s lives. Climbing just one level of stairs burns as much calories as walking 5 times that distance. Do that math, while you dream about being svelte. Then let everyone in the office smell the pits!

Walking burns calories. Simple, yet economical! Experts say you should walk a brisk 1-2 miles per day to stay in tip-top shape. To track this: buy a pedometer (they’re cheap) and try to walk 10,000 steps every day. If you drive to work and other places, start parking your car a couple of blocks away from your normal spot, and then walk that extra distance. Tip: buy some deodorant — you’ll need it.

Hit the grocery store. Mickey D’s are evil! With some thoughtful planning, you can transform your diet into a much healthier one. Before your trip: clip or get grocery coupons online so your wallet doesn’t get a workout (don’t worry: fat wallets are accepted in today’s U.S. society). Also, never go to the Publix on an empty stomach – this will keep those impulse buys out of the cart. Goodbye HoHos!

Local parks have recreation programs. Who knew? Check with your local center to find out what programs they have to offer. This could range from low-cost exercise and wellness classes, to free gym access (yes, I said free). Best of all you could meet other people in the same boat as you, looking to get lean and mean. It’s like a little overweight support group (sorry, that was insensitive).

Buy used or get free. Need weight lifting or other fitness equipment? My advice: don’t buy retail — its way overpriced (especially if Tony Little tried to sell it on TV). Most of us have friends and family who probably have unused or stored exercise equipment they don’t use anymore (I don’t mean to hang their clothes on). Ask them to “borrow” it. Another place to get discounted or free equipment: Freecycle or Craigslist.

Using these helpful tips will not only get you back down to your “fighting” weight (do you even know how to throw a punch?) but will also keep you from purchasing those expensive gym memberships and dumb weight loss meal programs (sorry Dan Marino). The rewards are a healthier and better looking you. Soon, you’ll be knocking ′em off with a stick. Good Luck!