Keeping up with sport while living away from home helps you stay healthy and make new friends. This post helps you choose an affordable gym or swimming pool and avoid long commitments you don’t need. It gives no specific prices because we don’t have real figures yet.
Types of pass
- Single visit: good for trying a place or if you go rarely.
- Weekly or monthly pass: flexible for newcomers.
- Multi-month or yearly pass: cheaper per month, but risky if you move away.
Check before you pay
- Try at least one session at the time you usually train.
- Equipment in good condition, clean, and enough of it at peak times.
- Hygiene, changing rooms, lockers.
- For pools: water quality, opening hours, swim cap rules, a coach or lifeguard.
- Distance from home, see where to live.
Contract terms
- Whether you can freeze, pause or transfer the pass.
- The refund policy if you move away or the place closes.
- Extra fees such as lockers, towels or a personal trainer.
Frequently asked questions
Are there free options?
You can exercise outdoors in parks or along the beach, or use the ward or neighbourhood sports grounds if there are any.
Should I buy a long-term pass straight away?
No. Try it for a month first.
See also: cost of living.