The Ten Best Ways to Exercise For Free in Auckland

Keeping fit and looking in shape are often at the forefront of our priorities, but even with the right intentions and snazzy gym gear, it can still be a real task to get motivated or splash out on the cause. Throw in the added challenge of eating well and keeping up with regular exercise and it can sometimes feel impossible to get into the drill of things. If you're working hard to keep on top of the new year, new body resolution or are even yet to get cracking, these tips should inspire some fresh ideas about how to get exercising for no cost.

JOIN THE COMMUNITY AT ADIDAS RUN CLUB

If running on your lonesome isn't really your thing, the team at adidas have got you covered. Every Tuesday, adidas hosts a free event that invites runners of all skill levels to not only spend some kms working towards exercise goals but also interact with similarly minded people. Departing each week from Victoria Park in Auckland's CBD at 6pm, the run offers distances between 5 – 10km. The Run Club offers the experience to bond with new people and get involved in a team atmosphere while strengthening an individual ability.

DOWNLOAD AN APP AND DIY

Whether you're a seasoned athlete or think a burpee is a fancy name for belching, it is imperative to keep exercise interesting by switching it up every so often. While the sun is out, head to your nearest park with a pre-downloaded free app. Look for user rating scores and a routine with variations that will be sure to keep you focused and excited about working out.

A good one to start with is Seven. The programme uses nothing more than a chair or bench, a flat surface, and your own body weight, which means you can do it from anywhere. There's also the Nike+ Training App which focuses on progress, personalised routines and goals while giving you encouraging tips like a personal trainer to get you started on those running goals.

TACKLE A VOLCANIC PEAK   

Auckland is home to over 50 volcanoes which not only make for an ideal spot to star gaze and picnic but a good place to work on that cardio and get the blood pumping. Find a hill that's close by or a summit that you're yet to conquer, chuck on some activewear and make the trek up and down. Park at the bottom, run up and walk it out on the way down, or walk from home to increase the distance.

GET BENDY WITH LULULEMON

Lululemon often hosts great events to meet new people with a fitness incentive. The Lululemon store in Ponsonby has a complimentary yoga session every Sunday from 8:30-9:30am. It's open to all levels, no matter your experience, and it's led by an instructor from a studio in the area.

Additionally, on Wednesday evenings from 5:30-6:30pm Lulelemon offers a complimentary high intensity interval training session run by Lululemon ambassadors, Abbylee Bonny from The H + H Lifestyle, and personal trainer Rhys from Crave Fitness Retreats. Keep an eye on the Lululemon Facebook page for details about upcoming events.

TAG ALONG WITH AUCKLAND JOGGERS CLUB

The Auckland Joggers Club has been running since 1962. Ideally placed anyone who is endeared by the idea of keeping fit and meeting new people while embarking on a jog through Auckland City. Auckland Joggers Club is a fitting kick-starter to bring novice runners up to speed while being guided by a helpful team who stand-by for support and take every level of expertise under their wing. Join the group on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 5:30pm at the Cornwall Park Sports Association. For the more enthusiastic, there is also a Saturday gathering at 7am and a Sunday walk at 8am.

TAKE A HIKE

It's no secret outer Auckland is covered in beautiful hike trails. Sometimes creating distance away from the hustle of city life is good for the mind. Walking with a group can make the idea of exercise seem less intentional and more recreational, and if you find a track with access to a beach you can really make a day of it. Check out some of Auckland's best trails here.

TEST OUT THE COUNCIL'S OUTDOOR GYM EQUIPMENT   

Taking advantage of the gym equipment in freely accessed parks all around Auckland is not just smart but beneficial for the body. Rocket Park Mt Albert, War Memorial Park Mt Roskill, Rosedale Park Albany, Warren Freer Park St Lukes, Walter and Massey Park, and Grey Lynn Park are just some of the parks around Auckland that offer adult workout equipment on or beside the playgrounds. Check your nearest parks for what equipment is on offer and research correct techniques and routines for each.

SWEAT IT OUT WITH NIKE+ RUN CLUB 

Nike+ Run Club is back for 2017 taking all who are willing on a team orientated run through Auckland. You can challenge yourself to push your limits further than before. Not only is Nike+ Run Club free but it's also open to all runners of every ability. Meeting every Wednesday at Nike Britomart, the pace leaders will help you through Auckland's premier running routes with an ever-changing set of speeds and distances each session, to match your progress. Register your spot one week prior to each session at here. 

SALUTE THE SUN AT THE SAPPHIRE ROOM

There's nothing more simplistic than jumping in a class with a seasoned tutor and just giving yoga a go. The popular workout has grown to be loved by many, so why not find out what the big deal is. Every Monday from 6-7 pm, Ponsonby Central's The Sapphire Room hosts an open free yoga session. All you need to bring is a yoga mat, towel and water to get this new hobby underway.

Edwin Lee via Flickr

PRACTISE TAI CHI AT RICHMOND RD PRIMARY

Although your tai chi skills may need some small tweaks and refining, or to be developed entirely, there's no better team to guide you through the martial art practice. Known to promote mindfulness as well as strengthen muscles, improve posture and assist with injury recovery, tai chi offers a serene, relaxing workout and an opportunity to learn a new craft. Held each Monday and Thursday from 8-9pm at Richmond Road Primary, tai chi is an exercise that anyone can do.