Keeping active in London

Fitness events, student discounts and sports to try

As the days get colder and darker, getting outside and staying active can feel harder. That’s completely understandable, but it’s worth making the effort! Sport and exercise are a great way to stay fit, boost your mood and make friends. 

The best place to start is by joining Halls Life events, including Pilates and Here 4 U Run Club. We’ve also pulled together gym and fitness offers, plus solo and team sports to try.

Pilates with Giulia 

📅 16 November, 7:00 - 8:00pm

📍 Sketch House Rec Room, open to ALL students

Looking for a way to unwind, build strength, and boost your wellbeing? Join us in the Sketch House Rec Room for a welcoming Pilates session led by Giulia, a passionate Classical Pilates teacher.

Here 4 U Run Club x Friday Night Lights Special

📅 27 November, 7:00 - 9:00pm

📍 GYM NATION London Bridge

Expect an unforgettable 6km social run through London, complete with music, lights, and a fun and vibrant atmosphere. Tickets are discounted through Halls Life at just £5. Plus, you can pick up a free Reign Storm Energy Drink. 

As a university student, you can access activity and gym membership discounts through Student Beans and UNiDAYS. Discounts vary throughout the year. Here are some examples of what to expect:

Student Beans

• The Gym Group: 20% off 9-month student saver & no joining fee
• Gym King: 15% student discount
• Everlast Gyms: 30% student discount

UNiDAYS

• PureGym: Up to 30% off & no joining fee
• Better: £15 off & no joining fee
• ClassPass: 1 month free & 15 classes for new customers

📍 Find out where the nearest gyms are to your hall

Ice hockey 🏒

Streatham Storm are the women’s ice hockey team based at Streatham Ice and Leisure Centre, an easy trip from UAL halls: about 30 minutes by bus from Camberwell Green (near Gardens House, Portland House and Town Hall Camberwell), or around 12 minutes by train from Peckham Rye station.

Why not head over and watch a game? Tickets to watch the Elite team play are £5 for students and WNIHL Division 2A games are FREE. 

👉 Find out more and book your tickets for upcoming games.

Interested in playing? Email streatham.storm.coaches@gmail.com to get in touch.

Arts Students' Union sports clubs 🏅

There's no shortage of sports clubs to join at UAL's Students' Union. From cheerleading and dance to surfing and climbing, there is sure to be a sport that you're interested in. 

This is a great way to get involved in competitive and non-competitive sports. Whether it’s competing against other universities in BUCS, or just turning up to have fun, joining a club is a fantastic way to participate in sports and meet new friends.

👉 You can find out more on the Arts Students' Union page.

Go Mammoth team sports 🤝

Go Mammoth runs social sports leagues across London, with options for every ability. Search for a league close to your hall to make staying active easy to fit into your schedule. Choose from netball, football, volleyball, basketball, dodgeball and more.

👉 Find out more about Go Mammoth.

Swimming 🏊

Swimming is a great full-body workout that has a low impact on your joints. In the colder seasons there are plenty of indoor pools to visit across London, and you can look forward to visiting outdoor lidos when summer rolls in. 

👉 Find a cheap swimming pool in London.

Cycling 🚴

Cycling is both a great method of transport and a way to move your body. It's easy to fit into your routine – why not cycle to college instead of taking public transport, or cycle in the city to explore a new spot?

👉 Read our tips on cycling safely in London.

Indoor climbing & bouldering 🧗

Improve your strength and agility by taking up indoor climbing. Whatever the weather, it combines fitness, problem solving and a social community to be part of.

👉 London Climbing Centres and City Bouldering have gyms across the city and there are plenty of other gyms you can check out as well.

Artwork credit: Gracie Dahl