What if you really don't have the cash for a membership or don't have the resources at home? There are plenty of things you can do with little or no weights and/or machines to achieve your goals.

• Do standard pushups, crunches, and leg raises.
• Do simple aerobics like jumping jacks, walk, jog, and rent exercise videos.
• Use stairs for tricep press, calf/heel raises, and incline pushups
• Use a broomstick for abdominal twists, arm curls/presses, and squats.
• Join a recreational team sport like softball, volleyball, flag-football, or whatever is available in your area.

I don't endorse the following, but there are ways to use facilities for free. Many hotels have gyms; you may want to ask before you attempt to use them. Or if there are a few workout places in your area, you should be able to get in there for free, at least for a little while. How? Many will offer you a "free week" and then they will hound you to sign a membership. If you can handle the hassle, jump from gym to gym. Of course, they may "catch on," but by then you might have reached your goal.

Granted it is not always free, but if you know someone with a membership, you could "buddy" with him or her for a few weeks. Finally, the most overlooked solution is the local college or university. Most will have a daily rate, but if you don't want to commit for a lengthy period, it might be just what you need.