9 Fitness Tips for Veterans in the New Year

It’s been shown repeatedly that those with military experience are motivated and disciplined. Why not embrace these traits to get fit?

You can achieve your goals without breaking the bank and a new year is always a good time to start.

AARP Membership— $12 for your first year when you sign up for Automatic Renewal

Get instant access to members-only products and hundreds of discounts, a free second membership, and a subscription to AARP the Magazine.

Join Now

Here are some practical tips for veterans to get fit while staying on budget:

1. Find a workout battle-buddy

The hardest part of getting fit is often just keeping to your routine. That's where a workout battle-buddy could be helpful.

When motivation wanes, veterans can rely on each other as workout battle-buddies. The knowledge that a workout partner is waiting is often all the motivation that they need to stay fully committed.

Partnering with a friend who shares your fitness goals ensures you will show up at the gym, even on those days when your individual motivation might be lacking.

2. Challenge yourself

Veterans thrive on challenges. Set fitness goals. Whether it's running a race, playing a sport, or getting back to your basic training weight, having a clear objective is a powerful motivator. 

A group of veteran friends could, for example, set a goal to run a half-marathon — training together, supporting each other and celebrating their achievement as a team.

When you have a specific goal, you’ll have something to aim for.

3. Embrace veteran discounts

Joining a local gym can be the perfect way to start your fitness journey. The good news: Many of them offer special rates to veterans, so you can access a top-notch facility without straining your budget.

Don't forget to score veteran discounts on athletic shoes and apparel as well at various retailers near you.

4. Get your golf game on

Golf can be a fun way to stay fit and active, while enabling you to enjoy the great outdoors. An extra incentive: Many courses across America offer veterans discounts on greens fees.