When starting university, staying active tends to take the back seat in the list of priorities. Between going to class and going out, it isn’t always easy to make time to look after yourself physically.
Staying active as a student is not only essential to your physical health, but also your mental health. Here is how you can stay active while at university.
Making use of the university’s sports facilities
In 2020, the University of Stirling was named Sports University of the Year by The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide. This is due to the university’s world-class sports facilities, including The National Tennis Centre and Olympic-sized swimming pool, and more.
The university also opened a brand-new gym in late 2020, which is handy for students on campus and can be a cheaper than other gyms around Stirling.

Join a sports club
With over 60 sports clubs to choose from, you are guaranteed to find something you enjoy. Whether you enjoy football, cheerleading or underwater hockey, there is something for everyone.
Joining a sports club ensures you will have a few hours of activity each week while also giving you the opportunity to meet more people. Clubs are a great all-round way of staying active and you can do it while doing something you are interested in.
Switch the bus for a bike
The city of Stirling is a home to NextBike, the world’s most extensive bike sharing provider, making getting around the city easier than ever. Instead of hopping on the bus, why not rent a bike instead?

With eight locations around the city as well as the university, you can pick up a bike at the university and leave it in the town centre. Just check the NextBike app to find where these locations are.
NextBike’s recent partnership with Santander has meant their existing Stirling fleet has been replaced with Santander Cycles branded smart bikes. These new bikes offer eight gears and smart features including improved GPS tracking, improved security and locking mechanisms.
Find out more here: https://www.nextbike.co.uk/en/news/nextbike-stirling-fleet-upgraded-bikes/
Take a walk
Keeping active is just as simple as taking a walk, and best of all its free. It is a great but simple way to not only stay active, but clear your head and take a break from your studies.
If you fancy a challenge, Dumyat is just on the university’s doorstep.
Feature Image Credit: Brig Newspaper
Lifestyle Editor / Third year journalism student
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