Weight management
Exercising on a budget: why do classes have to be so expensive?
Budget-friendly exercise is possible wherever you live
It doesn’t matter how large your budget is, there are ways you can get moving for free or for a minimal charge. With resources and services across the UK, you can find support for your fitness journey near you.
Published: November 2024
Review date: November 2027
Exercising can be expensive. In the UK, gym prices can start at around £15 per month and can exceed £100 for some facilities. The costs can make these environments inaccessible to some people.
If you want to start, working out, there are ways that you can kickstart your fitness routine without compromising your budget.
From at-home workouts to outdoor activities like hiking or running, there are lots of ways you can get active for free. Using online videos or fitness apps can help you create structured routines that target all of your major muscle groups.
You might also be able to find classes and events in your local area. Checking your city council website or using wellbeing services like Better can help you find low-cost gyms, aquatic centres, saunas and sports classes.
There are fitness apps and videos for lots of different types of exercise. Regardless of whether you’re interested in yoga, Pilates, cardio or strength training, you can find resources to suit your needs.
The NHS Fitness Studio also provides free fitness resources. But if you choose to work out alone, remember that you can modify your exercise routine to suit your needs and abilities.
As you get more comfortable with regular exercise, you may want to start using fitness equipment like weights to make your routines more challenging or yoga straps to make some movements more accessible.
You can buy tools online from second-hand vendors. Be sure to check the condition of anything you want to buy before you do. You should also find out whether the seller provides buyer protection so that you can return any faulty or damaged items.
Taking advantage of outdoor spaces like parks can be a great way to get active. Many parks have marked tracks for runners, some exercise equipment for bodyweight exercise and playing courts.
Many community groups will organise free events in these spaces, so doing some research about the activities happening in your local area can help you exercise and connect with others.