Being Active For Free

You don’t need fancy gear, pricey memberships or hours of time to start moving more and feeling better. There are lots of free ways to get active across the county helping you meet new people, have fun and feel happier and healthier. 

Being active is all about moving in a way that works for you. And that looks different for everyone. It could be going for a walk, joining a free group class or simply exploring your local place. Free activities make it easier for everyone to get involved.

Walking 

We can’t talk about free activities without mentioning walking! It’s one of the easiest and most accessible ways to get moving – just pop on your shoes and head outside whenever it suits you. 

Walking not only strengthens your bones and muscles but also lifts your mood, giving you plenty of physical and mental health benefits. Plus, joining a local walking group can turn it into a fun, social activity. 

Whether you swap a car journey for a walk to the shops or take ten minutes after dinner to stretch your legs, walking can slot into your day-to-day life effortlessly. 

Running 

If you’re up for a bit more intensity, running might be your thing! Start at your own pace and build up gradually. Or use apps like Couch to 5K to help you get started. Just grab your trainers and do what feels good to you. 

Need a friendly boost? Check out ParkRun. It’s a free, weekly community event where you can run (or walk!) with others.

Getting Active at Home 

Whether it’s a rainy day or you’re just more comfortable at home, you can still get active indoors. Play games like charades with your family, put on your favourite song and have a dance while you fry some eggs, or follow an online workout video for a quick burst of energy. Even squatting while the kettle boils can add a bit of movement to your day. There are loads of creative ways to move your body at home! 

Volunteering 

Want to get active and help out in your community? Volunteering might be just the thing for you. From gardening at the local community hall to sorting donations at a food bank, these activities get you moving and doing good at the same time! 

Volunteering can help you: 

• Meet new people and feel a sense of belonging 
• Gain a sense of accomplishment 
• Learn new skills 
• Support local organisations and projects 
• Improve your physical and mental wellbeing 

Why not see if your favourite local organisation needs an extra pair of hands? If you live in Southampton or Portsmouth, GoodGym is a brilliant option. Plus, the tasks change every week, so you’ll never be bored! 

Explore Your Local Area 

Hampshire and the Isle of Wight have some beautiful green and blue spaces to explore. But it’s not just about nature. Our towns and cities are packed with history and hidden gems. Turn your next walk into an adventure and see what you discover! 

There’s so much happening across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight that it can be tricky to find the right activity for you. That’s where the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Activity Finder comes in – one easy place to search for activities based on your location, budget, and interests. 

And don’t forget – there are loads of online resources and apps to help you get moving for free. Whether it’s workout videos or augmented reality games that get you exploring outdoors, there’s something for everyone. Check out our webpage all about being active using technology to find some new ideas. 

For volunteering opportunities, take a look at the Hampshire County Council volunteering page or websites like Nextdoor to see how you can get involved. 

You should also keep an eye on: 

• Local community noticeboards and newsletters 
• Facebook groups or community pages for your area 
• Your local council’s events pages – they often list free classes, workshops, and family activities 

  Getting active doesn’t have to cost a fortune. It’s all about moving more in ways that work for you. So, grab your trainers, try something new, and have fun exploring what’s out there!