Today, everyone knows that exercise is one of the most important things for your health, but the actual price of a workout these days can kill your savings!

With the proliferation of specialty studios, there has been a huge boost in exercise options here in the DC area. Unfortunately, many of these new studios come with a hefty price tag. As a fitness buff and millennial on a budget, I’m always on the hunt for the best deals in town.

At many studios, one specialty class can exceed the monthly membership fee at your neighborhood gym, making a regular commitment to an exercise routine costly. But, just like a fine restaurant offering fixed-priced menus and “early bird specials”, many of these studios have offers that can get you the workout you want without breaking the bank. You may have to make a few sacrifices like working out on your lunch hour or taking class with an instructor-in-training, but what you can save will leave you a little extra moolah for that well-deserved smoothie after class!

Many local studios like Flywheel, Zengo, and Stroller Strong Moms, offer first time visitors a free class. Others, such as Barre3, PureRyde, SoulCycle, Pure Barre, Potomac Pilates, Sweat DC, SolidCore, and 305fitness, offer a reduced price for first time guests.

Be sure to make it clear that you are a first time participant when you register for the class or look for a discount code on the website. If you find a class or studio that you like, additional savings can be had by purchasing packages of classes. The more you are willing to buy at once, the bigger the savings. One thing to note: Be sure to check expiration dates for these introductory specials, as many require that classes be used within a restricted time period. This option is best if you know you will be attending with some regularity. If you are left with even one of the classes in the package you lose out on your savings. Most packages are not transferable, so be sure this is the studio that you want.

If you are not hooked on any specific studio or just think it would be fun to try out a variety of classes (cycle, barre, dance, Pilates, boot camp, etc.) then ClassPass is a good option to consider. This will allow you to attend classes at a variety of studios in the area for one fixed monthly price. There are restrictions and limitations with the pass so be sure that the classes you want and the studios you frequent are included before you buy.

Another great way to save on classes is to attend at “off peak” times. Popular DC trainer (and my mom!) Elizabeth Haselkorn says that many studios offer “happy hour” classes during their slower times at savings up to half the regular price. If you have a flexible work or home schedule you can take advantage of substantial savings.

Zengo spin studio offers a noon class for $15 at their new Cathedral Commons location.

Potomac Pilates’ ”happy hour” classes are half price from 1:15-4:15 pm during the week.

Additionally, studios such as Barre3 often offer complimentary classes when there is an “instructor in training”. Most of these instructors have taught many classes already, but are just perfecting their skills at this studio or with a new format. I attended one recently and had I not known that the instructor was “in training” it would not have been evident in any way, Even if it isn’t perfect, it’s free!

If you are looking for savings on your exercise, be sure to check the studio’s website frequently; get on the mailing list for updates and specials; talk to the staff at the desk; and stay flexible with your schedule.

Almost every studio has special deals or events. Many offer a free class for mom on Mother’s Day or tell regulars to bring a friend and both work out for 1/2 price. Or even something as simple as new studio opening specials. If you can catch these deals, you can save a bundle.

Also, don’t forget your good old neighborhood gym! Many offer daily “drop-in” rates at a fraction of the cost of just one studio class. Crunch members can bring a friend to class for $10, which is cheap compared to both people paying to attend a class elsewhere. If you’re lucky enough to have friends who already belong to gyms, you can tag along for what is usually a pretty nominal fee.

Gyms are also always seeking to sign up new members, so if you ask nicely you can probably score yourself a free multi-day pass to test things out. If you try out enough gyms and studios around the city you can exercise for free most of the summer!

And, speaking of summer, don’t forget about some of the free outdoor offerings around the city like yoga in the park at Dupont Circle and the Georgetown waterfront. Some of the local Fitness retailers like Lululemon, Nike, and Athleta also offer free community classes in their stores or in the neighborhood. Just check their websites for the events calendar.

Or, you can always just pull on your sneakers and take a walk along the Potomac, through the neighborhoods, or around Haines Point. When it’s nice outside, it makes sense to save all your studio exploration for next winter!