From free workouts to exercising outside, five ways to get fit if you’re on a budget
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GET in great shape this JanYOUary without having to flex your finances. Whether you prefer to exercise at home or want to meet up with others outdoors, there’s a free fitness option for you. Get off the starting blocks with these simple workouts. SO LONG, SOFA: Start your journey with a supportive app such as “NHS Couch To 5k”.
![[Athletes stretching in a park.]](https://www.thesun.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/group-athletes-maintaining-healthy-lifestyle-961113326.jpg?strip=all&w=960)
You’ll be encouraged to gently build up your fitness until you can run the distance. You could also try the Couch To Fitness website (couchtofitness.com), which will guide you through three, 30-minute home workouts over nine weeks. RUN FOR FUN: Once you’ve caught the running bug, you can join a community of like-minded joggers.
![[Smartphone displaying the Couch to 5k app.]](https://www.thesun.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/2e9n962-mobile-phone-cell-phone-808663657.jpg?strip=all&w=960)
Search online for free running clubs in your area or ask at a local sports shop. You can also take part in a parkrun. There are more than 1,000 of these free, 5k runs around the country, held every Saturday morning in local parks. They are non-competitive, friendly and a great boost for your mind and body.
![[Rear view of a large group of people running a marathon.]](https://www.thesun.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/rear-view-large-group-unrecognizable-963782020.jpg?strip=all&w=960)
Go to parkrun.org.uk to register for your first event. PARK LIFE: As well as parkrun, there are likely to be other free fitness groups in a park near you. See ourparks.org.uk to search and register for free fitness classes run by qualified personal trainers.
![[Group of seniors exercising outdoors.]](https://www.thesun.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/health-elderly-people-lifestyle-963782104.jpg?strip=all&w=960)
They ensure that sport is accessible to everyone. If flexibility is more your thing, look out for free or low-cost yoga sessions in your area. Every Sunday morning from May to September, you can join free classes through parkyoga.co. Last year they were held in 50 locations around the country.
![[Woman doing a plank exercise while following a workout video on her laptop.]](https://www.thesun.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/woman-exercises-watching-workout-video-963782153_5e7379.jpg?strip=all&w=960)
