With longer days, warmer weather and the cost of living still front of mind for many UK renters, summer presents the perfect opportunity to rethink your fitness routine and the money that is spent on it.
Gym memberships can easily set you back £30–£60 a month, but when the outdoors becomes your workout space, staying active doesn’t have to cost a thing. Here’s how to make the most of the season while keeping more money in your pocket.
Make the most of local green spaces
One of the simplest (and most underrated) ways to stay fit in summer is right on your doorstep. Parks and green spaces offer the perfect setting for everything from relaxed walks to full-body workouts.
Try mixing up your routine with:
- Walking or jogging loops
- Interval runs using park paths
- Bodyweight exercises using benches, steps or open grass
Early mornings or evenings are ideal - not only is it cooler, but it’s often quieter too.
Try free outdoor workouts
You don’t need a gym floor to get a great workout. From HIIT to yoga and pilates, there’s a huge range of free sessions available online that you can take anywhere - your garden, balcony or local park.
All you really need is: A small space, a mat or towel, your phone/tablet/laptop.
Creating a simple weekly routine (even just 20–30 minutes a few times a week) can make a noticeable difference - without the monthly direct debit.
Swap the commute for active travel
Summer is the perfect time to rethink short journeys. Could you walk instead of driving? Or cycle instead of hopping on public transport?
Not only will this help you stay active, but it can also lead to meaningful savings over time - especially if you’re regularly paying for fuel, parking or train fares. It’s a small change that quickly adds up.
Take advantage of free community fitness
Many local communities offer free or low-cost ways to get moving, and they’re a great way to stay motivated too.
One standout is Parkrun, a free, weekly 5K event held in parks across the UK. It’s open to all fitness levels and has a welcoming, social atmosphere.
You might also find:
- Outdoor yoga sessions
- Informal bootcamps
- Local running or walking groups
It’s fitness without the fees, and with a built-in community.
Turn everyday activities into exercise
Staying active doesn’t always mean a structured workout. Summer makes it easier to weave movement into your everyday routine.
Think:
- Gardening (even on a balcony or small patio)
- Games in the park like football or frisbee
- A swim at a local lido or outdoor pool
It all counts, and it often feels less like exercise and more like enjoyment.
Set goals without the gym
Staying motivated is key - with or without a membership. Setting simple, achievable goals can help keep you on track throughout the summer.
You could aim to hit a daily step count, follow a Couch to 5K-style plan, or try a new outdoor activity each week. Having something to work towards makes it easier to stay consistent - and see real progress.
While summer workouts can be enjoyable, it’s important to exercise safely in warmer weather. Remember to stay hydrated, avoid exercising in peak heat, and stick to shaded areas where possible.
Swapping the gym for outdoor workouts, even just for the summer, could save you hundreds over the course of the year. More importantly, it’s a chance to enjoy your surroundings, try something new and build healthier habits without the added cost.
So before your next gym payment goes out, it might be worth asking - could you take it outside instead?
