How to Get Fit on a Budget: 5 Student Exercise Tips

University life can be a whirlwind – lectures, part-time work, seemingly endless assignment – and trying to fit in a workout session often feels like a challenge in itself. Here’s the good news though, staying fit doesn’t have to take forever or cost a fortune. Whether you’re living in student accommodation, commuting in, or balancing studies while living at home, we’ve got some fun student exercise tips that’ll get you moving.

This short guide should help you get active, energised and feeling good (without the need to pay through the nose for a gym membership).

Use What You’ve Got: Free Resources and Green Spaces

Think you need a gym to work out? Think again, because it’s one thing you don’t need to splash the cash on.

UK cities are bursting at the seams with open spaces that are perfect for a quick session – benches, steps and fields can double-up as makeshift gyms. There’s also plenty of free apps that can track your progress and even provide you with some additional exercise tips and tricks to make the most of what you have on your doorstep.

If you’re a newbie to the world of outdoor fitness, make sure to start small and work your way up to longer sessions. The ‘Couch to 5k’ challenge is a popular and relatively easy way to get yourself feeling fitter and healthier in no time.

Join Uni Clubs or Start Your Own

If you’re more of a social exerciser, your uni’s sports and wellness scene could be for you. Most student unions offer affordable (or even free) access to a range of fitness classes and activities. Ranging from five-a-side football to yoga, there’s usually something for everybody.

If you can’t find your sport, then consider starting your own club or society to reach your fellow obsessives. Sports such as Ultimate Frisbee and even Quidditch are fast becoming commonplace in UK Universities.

Walk or Cycle Whenever You Can

Possibly one of the simplest, yet most impactful tips we can give you is to merely walk or ride your bike wherever you go. If your classes, library or favourite meeting spot are withing walking distance, skip the bus and use your own power to get where you’re going.

Many cities also offer bike rental services that are helpful ways of getting around while also getting the blood pumping. Plenty of these services offer student discounts too, so there’s no excuse to cut corners on easy journeys anymore.

Turn Everyday Tasks Into Exercise

You don’t necessarily need the structure of a workout routine to make the most of the days exercise opportunities. Climbing stairs instead of taking the lift, carrying shopping instead of having it delivered, and even dancing in the kitchen while preparing food can all be great ways of staying active.

The reason is that all of these ‘micro-movements’ add up. They help with circulation and can contribute positively to your mental health and all-around happiness. We like to think of it as movement snacking – good for the brain and the body.

Check Out Student Discounts at Local Gyms

Ok, gyms aren’t totally off limits. This is because plenty of them offer discounted memberships for students – particularly if you’re happy exercising during off-peak hours.

Some Universities such as Nottingham Trent University, even have their own dedicated gyms that have been specifically built and operated for their students.

Final Thoughts: Fitness is Unique to You

Every student’s life looks different, and so does their fitness routine. So, it’s all about finding the things that help you get fit on a budget without sacrificing your lifestyle.

You don’t need the latest gear or expensive leisure centre memberships to stay healthy. Just a bit of motivation, our helpful student exercise tips and the willingness to get started.