What to do with $1,000 now

Low interest rates and the recent stock market surge make this a challenging time to find the best places for your extra cash.

6 of 11

Join a gym

Getting fit doesn't just feel good: It can cut your bills. The typical obese American (209 pounds or above for someone 5 feet 10 inches) incurred $1,429 more in health-care costs in 2006 than someone with a healthy weight (174 pounds or less). So buy a health-club membership (median cost: $775 a year) -- and spend the remaining $225 on a personal trainer to get you off to a strong start.

NEXT: Beef up your IRA (If you're 50 or older)

Last updated October 12 2009: 5:19 PM ET

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