5 of the Best Student-Friendly Gyms in Leeds

28 Oct 2025

Luke Williams

When the lecture ends and you still have energy to burn, where do you go? For many students in the UK, the answer is no longer the pub. It’s the gym. Fitness has become a major part of university life, whether you’re looking to clear your head, chase records, or build muscle. Leeds offers a wide range of gyms that offer everything a student athlete could want.

From campus amenities to modern performance centres that run like clockwork, we’ve scouted the city to bring you five of the best gyms in Leeds that welcome students with open arms (and some great deals).

5 of the Best Student-Friendly Gyms in Leeds

1. The Edge: University of Leeds Sport & Physical Activity Centre

If you’re a student at the University of Leeds, The Edge is more than just convenient. It’s a fitness playground built specifically for you. Featuring an eight-lane swimming pool, climbing wall, and one of the largest student focussed gyms in the city, it’s the kind of place you can spend an entire day working out different parts of your body. All the while, you can still make your lectures with ease.

What’s There? 

  • Free weights, resistance training, and cardio machines.
  • Weekly classes including yoga and spin.
  • Inclusive fitness plans designed to support all students.
  • Student-friendly pricing and flexible membership options.

Bonus Tip: Membership often comes discounted or included with your uni fees, depending on your course.

📍 Location: Willow Terrace Road, LS2 9JT
🔗 Explore student accommodation options near campus here

2. JD Gyms Leeds North

Saving money on your fitness regime doesn’t mean going to a dingy gym in the middle of nowhere. JD Gyms are a modern option for students who want to attend a public gym alongside plenty of their peers. Open 24 hours a day, it’s a great option for those wanting to exercise before or after a long day of study.

The big draw of this gym is the strength and conditioning area that is packed with some of the best free weights and machines available in Leeds. You can build muscle on a budget.

Why it Works:

  • Student memberships costs less than £20 per month.
  • Classes such as HIIT, Zumba, and circuit training are included in your package.
  • No contracts, meaning those here for one term can stay active.
  • Playlists that hit the mark (trust us).

📍 Location: Meanwood Road, LS7 2TT

3. Trinity Leeds Gym: Puregym

Located in the heart of the city, this Puregym is a commuter’s dream. Whether you’re travelling in from Headingley, Hyde Park, or further afield, you’re never far from a clean and functional gym that just works. It’s a great fit for students who want to work out without the fuss of some ‘fancier’ places. Puregym keeps things streamlined and efficient.

The Perks: 

  • Open 24/7, every day of the year.
  • Clear layout and plenty of machines, even during busier times.
  • Easy online sign-up, often no joining fees and regular discounts.
  • The app makes booking classes and tracking progress simple.

📍 Location: Albion Street, Trinity Leeds Shopping Centre, LS1 5ER

Puregym is a clean and functional place to workout in Leeds

4. The Gym Group: Leeds Headingley

For those living in student accommodation in Headingley, there’s no need to venture into the city centre to stay fit. Found in the core of Leeds’s student community, The Gym Group’s branch is exactly where you’d expect it to be. Surrounded by local eateries and within walking distance of most student homes. It’s another simple, yet efficient gym that works well for those exercising on a budget.

Why it’s Great: 

  • 24/7 access and no contracts.
  • Great selection of cardio machines and weights.
  • Cleaned regularly.
  • Student discounts available via UNiDAYS or The Gym Group app.

📍 Location: 10a Cardigan Fields Road, Kirkstall Road, Leeds LS4 2DG

👉 Check out more gym membership deals for students on UNiDAYS

5. Primal Gym Leeds

This one’s for the purists who want to workout in an environment made for pushing your limits. You’ll be surrounded by some serious gym goers and be able to take part in intense CrossFit workouts, functional training classes, and coached gym sessions.

If you’ve ever watched HYROX and thought it looked like fun, this should be your new training ground. If a more traditional gym intimidates you, don’t worry, there’s a genuine community feel here that welcomes newcomers regardless of their experience level.

The Lowdown: 

  • Tough strength and conditioning sessions.
  • Personal trainers available on request.
  • Workshops on nutrition, mental health, and performance.
  • Short term memberships available for those wanting to give it a try.

📍 Location: Marshall Street, LS11 9YJ

Finding Your Fit

Leeds has a gym for every kind of student. Whether you’re new to the city and just want a place to keep moving, or a seasoned athlete that needs facility designed for high performance training, you’ll find a gym in the city that can make all the difference.

Look for places with student rates, flexible hours, and easy cancellation policies. It’s also good to look out for a few free day promotions, especially at some of the more expensive gyms in Leeds. This way, you don’t have to commit before you’re comfortable.

Find your fit at a gym in Leeds

Ready to Get Training?

Now you’re familiar with the most student-friendly gyms in Leeds, the next step is to actually get out there and enjoy. Remember, not every fitness journey is the same, so never let anyone tell you not to keep pushing.

Want to learn more about student life in Leeds? 

Take a read through more of our Leeds blog posts to discover why this place is made for students.

We’ll see you on the Stairmaster.

Table of Contents