Get Your Exercise On... For Free

By Tiffany Pritchard Last edited 105 months ago
Get Your Exercise On... For Free
Capoeira Academy UK
Capoeira Academy UK
The Scoop's Get Fit For Free
The Scoop's Get Fit For Free
Korfball/Finsbury Park
Korfball/Finsbury Park
Ping! London
Ping! London
Prudential's Ride London
Prudential's Ride London
Run Dem Crew
Run Dem Crew
Sweaty Betty's Get Fit 4 Free classes
Sweaty Betty's Get Fit 4 Free classes
London Skate/Primrose Hill
London Skate/Primrose Hill
Tennis For Free
Tennis For Free
Skateboard Parks/Mile End
Skateboard Parks/Mile End
Outdoor Fitness Equipment/Finsbury Park
Outdoor Fitness Equipment/Finsbury Park
Sweatshop Running Community
Sweatshop Running Community

Feeling the need to get your body into tip-top summer shape — but your holiday-of-a-lifetime is pinching your pennies? Fear not, London has lots to offer when it comes to exercise. Even better news, it's free!

Korfball

We thought we'd start with a curveball — as many may not know this Netherlands-based sport (Korf is Dutch for basket) that resembles something between basketball and netball. Officially recognised by the International Olympic Committee, it proudly claims to being a part of the Olympic Games in 1920 and 1928.

Through June and July, mixed level teams of both men and women will be at Finsbury Park every Wednesday from 7pm. There's even a mini-tournament. Organisers encourage people to just turn up and play.

Tennis

Wimbledon is upon us, and with that comes inspiration to take to the courts. While court rental is relatively inexpensive, ranging from £6-£10 an hour, Tennis For Free takes it one step cheaper.

Whether you're looking for a place to play, or seeking a coach-led session, the organisation has a list of locations in your area. They even offer up equipment. So no excuses, it's time to ace it like Andy Murray.

Running

There's no shortage of running clubs in London and the good thing is that most are free. Whether you head to Asics' HQ at Oxford Circus; various Nike stores around town (check out Nike's first women's store in Chelsea that is now promoting ladies-only runs); one of SweatShop's retailer Run Hubs or to one of Run Dem Crew's intensive jog-alongs that includes post-run films, workshops and talks — there's a chance for everyone to get their trainers on and hit the pavement.

Capoeira

On behalf of Southwark Council, local dance teachers are giving complimentary capoeira classes in Bermondsey's Roundhouse on Tuesdays from 7pm-9pm. Not to be confused with Camden's famed music venue, this quaint community centre is a great place to get fit and meet fellow SE1 neighbours. So get ready to groove Brazilian style — you're sure to be hurting the next day...

Looking for a class more central? The esteemed Capoeira Academy located in Holborn is offering a buy-one-get-one-free discount.

Fitness in the Parks

Not up for group gatherings? Do it on your own. Fitness organisation Muddy Plimsoles have taken it upon themselves to draw up a detailed map outlining London's best outdoor training equipment. From Westbourne Green to Kennington Park, there's an opportunity to get involved with obstacle course activities at a location near you.

Bootcamps

Neighbourhood bootcamps are becoming more common. While most bootcamp classes offer free trial runs, these groups are free all the time.

Check out The Transformers' Saturday and Sunday morning sessions in Battersea Park, Clapham Common and Hyde Park.

In the East End, Our Parks offers bootcamp style classes across a range of different settings. From circuits to buggy exercise, anything goes when it comes to getting fighting fit. And thanks to organiser Born Barikor, it's all free.

The Scoop's Get Fit For Free bootcamp is again returning on Wednesdays from 7.30am-8.30am. Until 30 July, you can get your fill of callisthenics and body weight exercises courtesy of training association thirtysevendegrees.

Exercise classes

Trendy exercise brand Sweaty Betty throws itself into the freebie mix. Classes including yoga and barre are available throughout their boutique stores; but be warned, you might just be tempted to purchase their fancy garb (and it ain't cheap).

Fellow hip fitness-wear shop Lululemon joins the free fitness bandwagon as well, offering yoga and running classes in select locations (check out its Covent Garden and Chelsea venues).

Walking

Whether you're a rambler or not, London is one of the best places to get out on foot and burn those calories. From a Jack the Ripper escapade to a wander around 'royal' locales, Free Guided Tours organises weekly jaunts around the city.

Wanting to go further afield to London's picturesque countryside? Join the Saturday Walkers Club or the 20-30 something group Metropolitan Walkers (though if you're a fan, you're requested to pay after three gos).

Skating

Get your skates on: there's a lot of fun to be had with Friday Night Skate (and Sunday Stroll). Whether you want to test your climbing skills through the hills of Highgate, or simply head out on a leisurely skating excursion, this group offers a cardio work-out with added good times.

LondonSkate is a similar friendly group riding high on the skating vibe. Meander through their website for route and special event updates.

If you're more attuned to manoeuvring around on a skateboard, take a look at these urban playgrounds where skaters can test their skills amid alternative landscapes.

Swimming

London's pools are increasingly getting cleaner and swankier. While most cost between £3-£6 for entry, you can find cheaper. Hook up with Better's community gyms and find discounted rates at their local pools (which include the newly refurbished Aquatics Centre inside the Olympic Park), or get a free day pass at YMCA's fancy digs. Alternatively, jump in one of the many natural lakes and ponds on the outskirts of the city.

Don't want to swim it alone? Join Swim Dem Crew in Stratford every Monday evening at 7.30pm or tour London's pools each weekend. Membership is free — you just have to pay the pool fee (and optional post swim brunch).

Ping Pong

Get excited — Ping! London is bringing back its free tables across the whole of London from June through August. All you have to do is show up, grab a complimentary racket and ball, and get pinging. Similar to last year, an array of master classes will be available, as will the Ping Pong Festival. Table Tennis England urges you to stay tuned for more details.

Cycling

Join Prudential's Ride London on 1 August. All ages and abilities are welcome to cycle along the closed-off route that will take you past landmarks such as Buckingham Palace and Tower of London.

Don't have your own bike? Jump on a Santander bicycle (formerly Barclay's bike) for 30 minutes at no cost, and check out the city sites on your own guided tour.

Know of other freebies? Let us know your thoughts.

Images provided by respective organisations and Tiffany Pritchard.

Last Updated 06 June 2015