In the warmer months, its easier for students to keep fit. Go to the beach or the park and take a frisbee or a football. It’s that simple to get exercise. But in the autumn and winter, it’s much harder. Most universities have gyms these days and many students take advantage of discounted rates. Although they are cheaper than gyms open to the public, it can still be an unnecessary expense for students who won’t go every day. Here are some cheaper alternatives to help you stay fit and healthy.
Running
This may fill the average person with horror, but all you need is a pair of decent running shoes, an old t-shirt and some shorts. it’ll cost you per year what a typical gym membership will cost per month. Start with small, short distances and you’ll soon be competing in 5K races. It’s a great cardio method for building lower body strength and muscle. You’ll find you walk faster and more easily too. The NHS website Couch to 5K will help you in your journey. Alternatively, try your local Park Run.
Cycling
A slightly more expensive option in the short term but at least you won’t need to replace it every year as you will with running shoes, but why not join a cycling club? You’ll build endurance and get better as you increase the distance and intensity. The idea of cycling 20 miles now might fill you with horror, but when you’re with friends and there is a pub or a nice view (or both!) at the end, such exercise is fun. Best reserved for days when mild and dry weather is guaranteed.
Exercise DVDs
You don’t even need expensive equipment for this; an old pair of trainers will do as you won’t have the impact on your legs and knees. You can pick up old exercise DVDs in charity or pound shops. The great thing about exercises DVDs is that you aren’t held hostage to bad weather. If it’s raining and windy outside, you can stay inside in the warm and dry without risking your neck or getting soaked through. Alternatively, try searching YouTube. Some Personal Trainers use free videos as outreach marketing.
Join a Sports Group
It’s never too late to join the rowing team, the running team, the football or netball team. Don’t feel intimidated if you’re not sporty and don’t fancy competing. University groups exist for all abilities from those who were born with a football at their feet to the I-just-want-to-have-a-go. If you don’t want to compete in university competitions, nobody will force you. There will always be far more subscribers than people who want to compete anyway.