It’s no secret that students at The University of Exeter pride themselves on being some of the fittest in the UK, and on our treacherously hilly campus being fit is a necessity. But subscribing to the keep-fit trend, which has taken hold of campus has one major downfall: the cost.
The Russell Seal Fitness Centre caused outrage at the start of term by raising the prices of gym membership, making it even harder for students to stay fit, and debt free. But there’s no need to take out a second loan because there are alternatives to Exeter’s costly gyms and societies.
The internet can be a great aid. While watching Netflix all day will do little for your six-pack, there are a multitude of YouTube channels which post workout videos at no cost.
Jillian Michaels’ “Banish Fat, Boost Metabolism” and “Six Week Six Pack”, among others, can be watched for free.
FitnessBlender.com also provides full-length workout videos and quality health information completely free of charge.
Exeter has a range of diverse sports societies which would suit anyone’s interests, but they are seriously pricey. If you’re looking to get fit and meet new people without the sign-up fee take a look at Exeter Calisthenics Group on Facebook. It’s a free, student run workout group which focuses on bodyweight training. They meet at 12pm on Sundays at the sports park.
If you’re a lover of the great outdoors then the most obvious way to get fit on budget is to run. While this can seem daunting when any route back to campus will undoubtedly involve a hill, once you reach the quay there a miles of stunning (and flat) routes which follow the river as far as Exmouth.
Armed with these free alternatives to the gym you’ll never have to spend your beer money on keeping fit again.