How To Keep Fit Without Going To The Gym

Letters From TFS

Written by Miriam Onyemenam

As a Nigerian university student, if you cannot afford a gym membership, I promise you, you’re not alone. Because let’s not lie, let’s not steal, those things are costly! What do you mean I should come and pay taati kay a month because I want to keep fit? When I’m already carrying the weight of being a citizen of this country on my shoulders. Let’s be real, abeg.

So, my beloved, if you are like me and you would like to keep fit without breaking the bank, here are some ways to do that.

1. Workout in your room: You don’t need dumbbells or fancy machines to get a good workout. Your body weight is more than enough. Try exercises like push-ups, sit-ups, squats, and planks right in your room. There are plenty of YouTube channels dedicated to bodyweight workouts that can guide you through routines designed to target every muscle group. If you stick to doing 5-10 sets of these regularly, there’s no way your summer body will not start bodying.

2. Join a school sports team or club: Most universities have sports teams or fitness clubs that are free to join. Whether it’s football, basketball, or even table tennis, there’s something for everyone. Doing this is a way to kill two birds with one stone—staying active and making new friends. And we all know that having a team to support you makes every experience better.

3. Take walks regularly: Walking is one of the simplest and most effective forms of exercise, and it’s completely free. You can take walks around your vicinity, to and from school, and you can also make it a habit to walk to your classes instead of taking the campus shuttle. Walking not only helps you stay fit but also gives you time to clear your head and enjoy the fresh air. Plus, walking with friends is a great way to catch up on hot gist while burning some calories.

4. Engage in active hobbies: Turn your hobbies into a workout. If you love dancing, make it a regular part of your routine. Cooking, cleaning, or even playing games like “I Call On” with friends can be excellent ways to stay active. These activities don’t feel like exercise because they’re fun and engaging, but they still help you stay fit and healthy.

5. Make your study breaks active: Instead of scrolling through Instagram during study breaks, do quick physical activities. Try 10-minute yoga stretches, quick sprints around your hostel, or a few sets of jumping jacks. These short bursts of activity can help refresh your mind, keep you alert, and make your study sessions more productive and enjoyable. 

So, there you have it. Staying fit without a gym membership is not only possible but can be a lot of fun. The key is to be creative and make the most of your resources.

Whether you decide to put on your dancing shoes, join a sports team, or simply go for a walk, remember that the goal is to stay active and healthy while making the most of your activity.

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