If you’re overweight, you know how difficult it can be to have the dedication and will power to stick to a new way of eating and exercising. These difficulties can be compounded if you’re on a tight budget. Losing weight does cost more than staying in your current pattern initially. But over time, reducing your size will actually save you money. In the long run, you’ll find out that reduced food bills (because you avoid fast food) and less strain on your health insurance costs (because of the lack of weight-related problems) are two of the most obvious benefits of losing weight.

In the meantime, before you experience those benefits, you’ll have to deal with losing weight on a budget. Losing weight doesn’t actually cost that much if you are creative and willing to think outside of the box. A lot of the costs of weight loss have to do with the programs, potions and pills that weight loss companies push on people. Weight loss is a huge industry, but you don’t have to buy into it.

The following tips will help you trim down the waistline and your budget at the same time:

1. Exercise in your own space. The average gym membership costs hundreds of dollars per year, even more if you buy into the gym’s hyped up weight loss and nutrition products. Many people join a gym and never go because they are embarrassed or self-conscious. They join thinking that the gym will help them stick to a program. Really, it’s all about personal dedication and commitment.

You can achieve the same kind of results at home with your own DVD player and a few basic pieces of exercise equipment. Invest in some used exercise DVDs and look for a set of 10 to 15 lb free weights at the discount store. With these basic items, you’ll be able to exercise all of your major muscle groups without the expense of joining a gym.

2. Opt out of “fake” diet foods. Many weight loss programs are so expensive because they want you to buy their brand of diet shake or their snacks. You can reduce these costs by making the majority of the food yourself. No matter what kind of diet you are trying to follow - low-fat, low-carb or low-calorie - you can make the food yourself and save. Taking the time to learn how to prepare the food yourself instead of relying on packaged meals will also help make your changes permanent. If you learn how to cook healthier, you’ll definitely have an easier time eating healthier.

3. Search at thrift stores for “in between” clothing sizes. As you start to lose weight, you’ll reach a point where your old clothes are too big, but you’re not quite at your goal weight. Although it may be tempting to go out and get a new wardrobe for your “in between” size, the best thing to do is wait. Look at thrift stores or discount stores for some basic clothes that will get you through this interim period. Additionally, having clothes that aren’t new and exactly what you want may motivate you to keep going with your weight loss. If you know you have a shopping trip at the end of your journey, you’re likely to keep going.