The student life can sometimes be a little unhealthy. If you think of the student cliche, then you’ve probably got late nights snacking in libraries and later nights out partying in mind. So it can be important to think about your fitness. Check out these fantastic places to get active in Bristol…

Best place for outdoor fitness in Bristol 

An iconic location for relaxing with a few ice creams or illegally trying to set up a barbeque (which we don’t recommend) The Downs is actually a great place to play sport. As well as the wide open space, there are also six outdoor exercise stations and football pitches, if you look hard enough. These are completely free and accessible to the public, meaning on a sunny day you can grab a football and go and have a kick about on a full pitch, providing you get there before the others read this and catch on. Good luck!

Best place for a swim in Bristol

Bristolians have been enjoying Bristol Lido since the original baths opened their doors, way back, in 1850. However, in 1990 the pool was under threat from developers who saw the spot as the ideal place to stick some new flats. However, in 2006 the lido was rescued and reopened to the public. Now it’s a fantastic place to swim and get fit. The 24m outdoor swimming pool is heated throughout the year, staying at a very comfortable 20 to 24C. After you have finished your swim you can recover in the sauna, steam room or hot tub.

Best place to pick up a new sport in Bristol

University is the perfect time to pick up a new sport — most students have a load of free time. And Bristol has one place in which you can find a whole host of new activities. Bristol Activity Centre offers guests the chance to pick up paintball, bubble football, clay shooting, archery, quad biking, axe throwing and much more. You may only end up doing the activities for a day but at least you’ll get your eye in for all those stag and hen dos.

Best place for watersports in Bristol

Bristol is known for its harbour side and what better way to make the most of this than to try watersports? All-Aboard Water Sports gives you the opportunity to do this right on the Bristol City Docks. It is available to everyone, including those with physical or cognitive disabilities, so no-one should be left out. They take on groups, so you can easily spend an otherwise uneventful birthday learning how to sail the waves (not many mind you – it is England). There are even opportunities to learn how to drive a powerboat. So pop on down and dip your toe in.

Best place for free running

Indoor sports club, Freedog, includes a trampoline park, balance beam and lazer maze and power tower, to expand your sporting horizon. Whether you want training in your chosen sport or just fancy playing around for the sweat of it, this is a perfect place to explore new sports surrounded by fellow beginners so you won’t embarrass yourself too much as you try that backflip off the wall. No matter your experience, there is a sport here that is sure to get you moving.

So, there you have it. Those are the best places to get active in Bristol. For more things to do, check out our list of 20 things to do in Bath and Bristol.