As a student you may be trying to stay in shape and wondering how best to do this on a student budget. Below you will find methods to to help you to stay fit using resources you may have as a student:

Use the campus fitness equipment
Many colleges have fitness equipment for student use. It is often available for free or for a small fee.

Swim at the campus pool
If your college has a pool, swimming laps is a great way to have fun while staying in shape. Campus pools often offer a large discount on admission for students.

Enroll in a fitness course for credit
Even if you have completed all of your fitness requirements, you may want to take additional fitness courses. Having specific days and times to attend class may help you motivated. It could also be an opportunity to learn a new sport or fitness activity.

Before deciding upon this option, check to make sure that it is cost effective. If you are a full-time student, you may be able to enroll in an extra credit without paying additional tuition. Schools differ on the way they calculate tuition. Therefore, it is very important to check on the cost of taking additional credit.

Participate in a campus fitness class (not for credit)
Many campus fitness centers will offer low cost or free fitness classes, such as aerobics, for students.

Play a campus sport
Even if you are not a college athlete, there are often sports you can play with fellow students. Many schools have intramural or other noncompetitive sports teams. This can be a great way to have fun, meet fellow students, and remain fit.

Join an activity-related student club
Some student clubs are for students interested in particular activities, including fitness-related activities. Search for one that you find interesting and will help you stay active. Some examples of clubs you might search for include, hiking, biking, caving, figure skating, and inline skating.

Form a walking or running group
Walking and running are cheap and easy ways to stay in shape. The only equipment they require is a set of good athletic shoes. Getting friends or others who are interested in getting into shape together to form a group can be helpful. It can give you set days and times to meet, ensuring that you don’t procrastinate. Also, exercising in a group can be more motivating than doing it alone.


Keeping physically fit is very important. However, joining a private fitness facility can be costly. If your funds are limited, you can refer to the list above to help you find other resources to help you stay in shape.