You don't have to break the bank to achieve your fitness goals. You just need to be wise about where and how you shop, look for deals and seasonal sales, and employ a little creativity in the kitchen.
Regardless of your current financial situation, you can "penny-pinch" your way to building major muscle. Each of these meals has an average cost of $3.50, makes five servings, and can be easily customized to meet your goals. Now that's diesel on a dime!
1. Spicy Turkey Chili
This is a staple meal in my home state of Texas. One of the best things about chili is you can make it your own by tossing in your favorite veggies and protein. It's virtually impossible to screw this meal up, but, if you do ... well, just don't tell anyone.
2. Curry Tuna Salad with Brown Rice Cakes
Every time I feel a "squeeze" on my wallet, I turn to my personal ol' faithful—canned or packaged tuna. Tuna is not only affordable, but it's also a good, lean protein source whether you're cutting or bulking.
Just sneak into your parents' house and "borrow" a few spices, and you can crank up that tuna salad to the next level.
3. Grilled Chicken with Pineapples and Bell Peppers
Hands down, this is one of my favorite meals! Penny-pinching or not, this meal should be a part of your regular diet. You'll likely never approach eating chicken and rice the same.
4. Rotisserie Chicken Noodle Pasta Bake
Well, it's not your mom's homestyle chicken noodle soup, but it does the trick when you're pressed for cash and low on fitness fuel. All you need to do is purchase a rotisserie chicken from your local grocery store, remove the skin, and boom! You have instant, delicious protein for several meals.
