Get on top of your finances in 2018

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Do you know how much you can afford to spend each month, or do you keep using you cards and then lie awake at night working out how you’ll pay for everything?

With Brexit just over a year away, businesses concerned about the future and the world in a volatile place, money worries are on the rise, as are prices, and debt seems to be a bigger issue for many people.

While rent and council tax take up a big chunk of incomes, those large costs often aren’t the problem, it’s the smaller bills that add up and the unexpected expenses that can cause stress.

We have had a look at how to keep on top of things so you don’t feel like you’re going under every time you look at your statement.

Have a budget
Yes, it sounds simple but sometimes going back to basics can be a good idea. Making a list of the money coming in and out each month lets you see exactly what is happening with your finances, rather than burying your head in the sand. Firstly look at income, then list all of your fixed costs and should including your housing, utility bills, standing orders, car payments, insurance and phone bills. Then look at your fluctuating costs such as food shopping, entertainment, holidays, pets and anything else you have to cover. With all of this in hand you can work out how much is left, or not, and where changes could potentially be made.

Shop for the bargains
We all like nice things, but there are many savings to be had out there, and deals can really help keep you buoyant. Buying presents in the sales, stocking up on school uniform when it’s half price and shopping around for cheaper car insurance might seem like an extra job to add to your list, but the pounds soon add up. It is also worth looking at the money off vouchers on leaflets, loyalty cards and incentives as these can make a real difference to your pocket.

Meal planning
Another way of saving money is by actually only buying the food you need and not letting fresh items go to waste. Before you go shopping, work out what you are going to eat in the week, include packed lunches and snacks, and only buy those items. Yes, BOGOF might seem like a deal you can’t miss out on, but when that extra cake or loaf of bread goes mouldy, you haven’t saved anything at all.If there are items deals going cheap at the end of the day, buy them but only if you are going to eat or freeze them straight away.

Turn off your lights
It is amazing how many people leave lights on, have the heating burning at full blast when they are out and let the water run as they brush their teeth. All of these things cost money, so turn things down and switch them off if you want to save money, and the environment.

Second hand options
Vintage, retro, upcycle are all on trend and for a good reason, they offer value. You don’t have to buy everything new and if you go to charity shops, car boot sales and auctions, you will amazed at the bargains there are to be had.

Rainy day fund
We all like to think the unexpected won’t happy to us, but it does. If you can, try to save a little money each month so that if the car does break down or the boiler goes wrong, you have a buffer and don’t hit the red.

Keep on track
Once you have your finances in place, don’t them slip. Making lists, having a database and checking your online banking on a weekly basis can help you keep on track. If you do feel things are spiralling out of control, talk things over with a trusted friend or speak to Citizens Advice Bureau but don’t let the bills pile up and the stress get on top of you.

Zumba Anyone?

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Long gone are the days when exercise was considered to be boring and mundane and done in oversized t-shirts and jogging bottoms.

Since Zumba hit gyms, village halls and studios, it has become a fitness phenomenon that has captured the heart of millions. The brilliant thing is, it isn’t only tremendously effective but it is really, really good fun and totally inclusive. Whether you are a teenager, new mum or pensioner, there is a Zumba workout that is right for you.

Zumba combines many different dances styles including hip-hop, soca, samba, salsa, merengue and mambo whilst also incorporating squats and lunges. In one hour a female weighing between 135lbs & 155lbs can expect to burn off approximately 400 calories and really start to get in shape. As you can also have fun, go along with your friends and start to see a whole new level in your fitness, it is easy to see why over 15 million people take weekly Zumba classes in over 200,000 places across 180 countries.

We asked a few people why the are hooked on Zumba:

“I go to Zumba with my mum and sister every week and as well as getting a great workout we have fun together and catch up”.
Jo

“Zumba doesn’t even feel like exercise as you are so busy having fun and trying to work out where your feet go next”.
Zoe

“I will be 56 next month and I LOVE Zumba”.
Sue

 

Thanks to Club Dance Holiday you can now go on a holiday with a twist and combine travel with Zumba – genius.

Hosted by the one and only George Martini, a fully accredited Zumba instructor, with a cult following, holiday makers will be able to get fit, lose weight and tone up whilst having the time of their lives practicing this addictive Latin Dance and aerobic workout.

To make sure there are options for everyone, there’s a weekender in Bournemouth and a week in Calpe, Spain.

Zumba in Bournemouth (from only £159.00pp) is open to all fitness levels and as it is on home soil it is the perfect way to get started if you are a newbie. You’ll enjoy a high-energy daily schedule of Zumba® lessons with some of the UK’s best teachers, evening entertainment and time to enjoy the local sights and dance the night away in a social group of like-minded people – a weekend by the sea with a difference! Staying half board in the comfort of the 3*Hotel Piccadilly, situated in the exclusive East Cliff area of Bournemouth and with an unrivalled dance floor space, you will enjoy at least six hours of high energy Zumba® classes, evening entertainment and the opportunity to explore the delights of Bournemouth.

If you fancy a little sunshine with your Zumba why not head to in Calpe, Spain? Spend a revitalising week immersed in a full programme of fitness and well-being including Zumba® in the Spanish sunshine. You’ll enjoy a high-energy daily schedule of classes with George Martini and friends, including Zumba®, Aqua Zumba and more. It doesn’t end there, you’ll also get time to enjoy the local beaches, sample the cuisine and dance the night away in a social group of like-minded people with a lot of fun! George’s enthusiasm, charisma, fun and inclusive teaching method will ensure that you experience a memorable week with as much Zumba as you can handle as well as some great nights out. Your holiday, including all dance and fitness classes, takes place in the 4* Hotel AR Diamante Beach, situated on Levante Beach and with three swimming pools, fitness centre, spa and a choice of restaurants and bars.

So whether you fancy a short UK break or a really great Zumba fitness fiesta in Spain there’s something for everyone and all you need to decide on are your dancing shoes.