When you’re on a student budget, going to the gym can sometimes feel like a luxury. Memberships can add up quickly, and it’s sometimes tempting to skip it altogether. The good news is that most gyms offer a discounted membership for students. You just need to know where to look.
PureGym
Student Perk: 30% off for your first 6 months
Why It’s Good: Open 24/7, flexible contracts and plenty of locations across the country.
Perfect for: Students who simply want a gym at a reasonable price point.
Downsides: Can get very busy at peak times. Extra features of the gym cost more.
The Gym Group
Student Perk: 20% off 9 month and 12 month memberships
Why It’s Good: Low monthly fees, no long contracts and easy access to other Gym Group sites.
Perfect for: Students who want flexibility, affordability, and the ability to go to the gym when they visit home too.
Downsides: Sometimes the very barebones of gym equipment. It’ll have everything you need, but when it’s busier you may have to wait.
JD Gyms
Student Perk: First month for as low as £5
Why It’s Good: Big facilities, plenty of equipment, free classes included in the membership.
Perfect for: Students looking to get a little more out of their gym.
Downsides: Fewer locations than PureGym or The Gym Group, and pricier than both too.
Nuffield Health
Student Perk: 15% off monthly and annual
Why It’s Good: Facilities often include pools, saunas, physio therapy, squash courts and plenty of gym equipment.
Perfect for: Students who want more of a ‘luxury’ fitness experience.
Downsides: Even with a discount, it’s still likely to cost a pretty penny.
University Gym
Student Perk: Often the cheapest option, as they’re typically subsidised by the respective unis.
Why It’s Good: Generally on campus (so near your lectures), low-cost and often comes with access to sports clubs and classes.
Perfect for: Students who are looking to get involved in sports at uni or those looking for the convenience of it being on campus.
Downsides: Typically uni gyms are BUSY. Quality, equipment and opening hours can vary a lot, depending on your uni.
Tips for Choosing the Right Gym
- Check the Location - If the gym is far away, or you’ll have trouble getting there, you probably won’t go.
- Look for Short-Term Contracts - Money and time are never consistent throughout uni, being able to be flexible with the gym will help you financially.
- Trial passes - Many gyms offer a free day or a cheap day pass. Make use of it. Get a feel for the gym before you commit.
When it comes to the gym, it’s all about what works for you, and where you’ll actually show up and be consistent. If that’s your uni gym just because it’s nearby, make the most of it. But if you think it’s too busy, or the hours just don’t work for you, try a chain gym with 24/7 access. If neither works, don’t forget to check out your local leisure centres and independent gyms. Sometimes they offer good deals and prices, and might have a friendlier atmosphere and shorter contracts than the big name gyms.