Financially fit: New year, new you, new wallet

The top resolutions of 2026? Ding ding – it’s enhancing your health and saving money! According to a recent survey by Statista, over half of adults in the U.S. are prioritizing their wellness – physical and financial – in 2026. Want a two-for-one special? Here’s our top tips to start the New Year with a new PR (personal record) and new wallet.

What you’ll learn:

• Gamify your goals
• Optimize your grocery bill
• Invest in your health

Gamify your goals

So… what’s in it for me? A lot – at least, according to a recent study published by the Circulation Journal of the American Heart Association. Researchers found a strong correlation between incentives and physical activity. In this study, participants were more likely to achieve their exercise goal when it was gamified (awarding points or financial rewards for hitting milestones).

Combining the two incentives (health and financial) together by gamifying your goals can have an even bigger impact. For example, every dollar you save on fast food or eating out, put into a high-rate savings account to reach one of your financial goals. Not only will you be helping your health by making better nutrition choices, but you’ll be putting funds away to reach your financial goals.

At Alliant Credit Union, you can also open up to 19 different supplemental savings accounts. You can use these different accounts to help separate your goals into different categories, such as an emergency fund, car fund, vacation fund, or more.

Optimize your grocery bill

Cooking and eating meals at home is an effective way to both spend less and eat better. Start by making a list before heading to the grocery store and then meal prepping at the beginning of the week. With total control over each meal, you can modify based on your fitness goals (like more protein or less carbs).

Another easy tip is to focus on shopping the perimeter of the grocery store first, which usually features whole foods like meat, dairy, and produce. In-season fruits and vegetables are typically the cheapest (and tastiest!) based on their peak season.

Invest in your health

Being proactive with your health now can save you money later. Consider the implications that could arise if you choose not to prioritize your health, like expensive medical interventions or more frequent doctor appointments. Not only could this save you money, but also time that could be spent elsewhere with family and friends.

For example, purchasing a fitness watch to track your steps, heart rate, etc. can act as an accountability buddy toward reaching your goals. You could also add gym membership to your new health regimen and really supercharge your momentum. Though spending money on yourself may seem pricey, it can also pay for itself in the future by keeping you happy and healthy.

It all begins with one step (literally!) to attain your health and financial goals this new year. With so many ways to stay in budget and save while also improving your health, it could even be the key to unlocking a wealth of vitality and dividends for years to come.