Open-air fitness: a way to energize student life?

1. Why is outdoor fitness good for students?

.1 What are the health and concentration benefits of outdoor sport?

Practising a physical activity outdoors has many advantages for the physical and mental health of students. Unlike indoor training, outdoor sport offers a direct connection with nature, which has a positive impact on overall well-being.

1.1.1 Improving physical health

• Strengthening the cardiovascular system: Exercises such as running, cycling or outdoor circuit training stimulate the heart and improve blood circulation.
• Increased stamina and strength: Training outdoors puts a more natural strain on the body, thanks to the varied terrain and changing weather conditions.
• Better body oxygenation: Fresh air improves muscle oxygenation and promotes faster recovery after exercise.
• Exposure to natural light: Outdoor exercise enables better synthesis of vitamin D, essential for bone strengthening and immunity.

1.1.2 Positive effects on concentration and productivity

• Reduced stress and anxiety: Exercising outdoors releases endorphins, the feel-good hormones that reduce anxiety and improve mood.
• Improved concentration: studies show that regular physical activity improves cognitive abilities, particularly memory and attention.
• Increased motivation: Training outdoors, in pleasant surroundings, encourages more regular practice and reduces the feeling of fatigue associated with enclosed spaces.

✅ S ummary

• ✅ Improves cardiovascular health and strengthens endurance.
• ✅ Promotes better oxygenation and increased vitamin D synthesis.
• ✅ Reduces stress and boosts concentration for better academic performance.
• ✅ Offers a more motivating setting than a closed gym.

1.2 How can outdoor fitness save you money on a gym membership?

Many students want to exercise regularly, but the high cost of gym membership can be a barrier. Outdoor fitness is a cost-effective and accessible alternative, allowing you to train free of charge while enjoying the benefits of outdoor sport.

1.2.1 A free, accessible alternative

• No membership fees: Unlike gyms, open-air fitness centers are generally free of charge, especially in parks and on university campuses.
• No equipment required: Many bodyweight exercises, such as squats, push-ups and pull-ups, provide a complete workout without equipment.
• Using public facilities: More and more towns and universities are installing outdoor fitness equipment, offering a variety of facilities (pull-up bars, abdominal benches, stationary bikes, etc.).

1.2.2 Cost comparison between gyms and outdoor fitness centres

Here’s a comparison between gym membership and outdoor fitness:

Criteria	Sports hall	Outdoor fitness
Monthly cost	Approx. €30-50	0€
Commitment	Often an annual subscription	Free and flexible
Equipment	Machines and weights	Outdoor apparatus and bodyweight exercises
Flexibility	Fixed hours	Available 24/7
Accessibility	Depends on room location	Present in parks and on campuses

1.2.3 A cost-effective long-term solution

• No financial constraints: students can train regularly without worrying about their budget.
• Training sessions tailored to your needs: Each student can create his or her own training program based on his or her objectives.
• Possibility of investing in personal equipment: With the money you save, you can buy simple accessories like a floor mat, elastic bands or a weighted vest to vary your workouts.

✅ S ummary

• ✅ Outdoor fitness is 100% free, unlike gyms.
• ✅ Public infrastructures offer facilities accessible to all.
• ✅ Bodyweight training allows you to exercise without equipment.
• ✅ Savings can be reinvested in personal equipment.

1.3 Why is outdoor training more motivating?

Outdoor fitness offers a more engaging and dynamic experience than indoor training. Many factors make this practice more motivating and attractive to students.

1.3.1 A more stimulating, natural environment

• A pleasant setting: Training in a park or on an outdoor campus gives you a feeling of freedom, far from the confined spaces of gyms.
• Endless variety of exercises: Unlike gyms, where you often follow a fixed routine, students can vary their workouts according to the location and facilities available.
• Contact with nature: Studies show that playing sports outdoors improves mood and reduces mental fatigue.

1.3.2 Motivation reinforced by the group

• A collective training effect: seeing others training around you boosts motivation and the desire to progress.
• A way to socialize: Outdoor fitness sessions are often more interactive, encouraging meetings and sharing.
• Less social pressure: Unlike gyms, where some may feel pressure to perform, the outdoors offers a more relaxed and inclusive setting.

1.3.3 Flexibility that adapts to students’ daily lives

• No time constraints: you can train early in the morning, between two classes or in the evening, without being tied to a gym’s schedule.
• More spontaneous training: Outdoor fitness allows you to incorporate sport into your daily routine without rigid planning.
• Ideal for alternating between sport and revision: a few minutes of exercise between two study sessions improves concentration and productivity.

✅ S ummary

• ✅ Outdoor fitness is more engaging thanks to a stimulating natural environment.
• ✅ It fosters collective motivation and encourages socialization.
• ✅ It offers total flexibility, ideal for student schedules.
• ✅ It allows you to alternate efficiently between study and physical activity.

2. Where can you practice outdoor fitness as a student?

2.1 Where are the best places for outdoor sports?

Outdoor fitness is an ideal solution for students who want to stay active without financial or time constraints. There are numerous areas where you can train effectively, alone or in a group.

2.1.1 Parks and green spaces: free and open access

• Adapted infrastructures: Many cities have set up parks with outdoor fitness equipment (pull-up bars, espaliers, fixed bikes, etc.).
• A motivating natural setting: The presence of trees and green spaces provides a soothing, pleasant environment.
• Ideal for cardio and strengthening sessions: Alternate between bodyweight exercises and running.

2.1.2 University campuses: easy access for students

• Dedicated sports facilities: Some universities offer outdoor facilities, with fitness trails and weight stations.
• Advantageous proximity: these spaces enable students to fit sport into their timetable without having to travel too far.
• An opportunity to practice in a group: student associations often organize group training sessions outdoors.

2.1.3 Multisports fields and municipal infrastructures

• Available in most cities: open-access basketball courts, athletics tracks, street sports areas.
• Varied equipment: Ideal for mixing fitness, muscle-building and team sports.
• Access often free or at reduced cost: Some municipalities offer facilities that are accessible to all residents.

✅ S ummary

• ✅ Parks and green spaces offer free infrastructure and motivating surroundings.
• ✅ University campuses often have student-friendly facilities.
• ✅ The municipal infrastructure allows us to diversify our training activities.
• ✅ Outdoor training is flexible and free of financial constraints.

2.2 Are university campuses well equipped for outdoor sports?

University campuses play a key role in promoting outdoor fitness by providing suitable facilities for students. However, not all establishments are equal when it comes to outdoor sports facilities.

2.2.1 Developing infrastructures

• More and more campuses equipped: Many universities are investing in outdoor sports facilities (fitness trails, weight machines, multi-sports fields).
• Free and encouraged access: unlike university gyms, which sometimes charge a fee, outdoor facilities are often accessible to students free of charge.
• Initiatives to encourage physical activity: Some establishments set up outdoor fitness programs with coaches or guided sessions.

2.2.2 Suitable but sometimes inadequate facilities

• Differences between establishments: Some universities boast a host of modern facilities, while others still lack suitable infrastructure.
• High student demand: Outdoor fitness areas are often very busy, which can limit access to certain equipment.

2.2.3 Which campuses offer the best facilities?

• Major universities are investing more: establishments such as Université Paris-Saclay, Université de Bordeaux and Université de Lille have set up high-quality outdoor sports facilities.
• American and Scandinavian campuses ahead of the game: Some countries are ahead of the game when it comes to outdoor facilities, with campuses offering infrastructures comparable to public sports parks.
• A model for other universities to follow: Encouraging outdoor fitness on campus could be a solution to students’ sedentary lifestyles and promote their well-being.

✅ S ummary

• ✅ More and more universities are investing in outdoor fitness facilities.
• ✅ This equipment is often free, but sometimes insufficient to meet demand.
• ✅ Some universities offer modern, well-maintained facilities.
• ✅ Further development of these sports areas would promote an active lifestyle among students.

3. How can I fit outdoor fitness into my student timetable?

3.1 Tips for finding time to train outdoors?

Between classes, revision and personal commitments, it can seem difficult to find time for outdoor fitness. But with a few organizational tricks, it’s easy to fit regular physical activity into a student’s schedule.

3.1.1 Planning your sessions for greater regularity

• Set fixed times during the week: Blocking off a specific time each day or several times a week allows you to get into the habit without thinking about it.
• Use a calendar or app: Scheduling your sessions in a digital calendar or via a sports app helps you manage your time better.
• Prioritize regularity over duration: Even 20 minutes of outdoor exercise can be enough to stay in shape.

3.1.2 Taking advantage of free time to train

• Between classes: Instead of spending time on your phone, use a break for a quick session.
• An alternative to motorized transport: Walking or cycling to class makes physical activity a natural part of everyday life.
• In the morning or at the end of the day: exercising before class or after a day’s work helps you stay energized and relaxed.

3.1.3 Combining sport with other activities

• Review while walking: Learning your lessons while walking in a park can be a great way to combine study and physical activity.
• Working out in a group: Getting together with friends for an outdoor fitness session provides extra motivation.
• Opt for short, effective workouts: HIIT (high-intensity interval training) burns calories in a short space of time.

✅ S ummary

• ✅ Plan your sessions for greater regularity.
• ✅ Take advantage of breaks between classes and travel to incorporate sports.
• ✅ Combine exercise with other activities such as revision or commuting.
• ✅ Favour short but effective sessions to maximize benefits.

3.2 How do you stay motivated over the long term?

Motivation is key to maintaining a regular outdoor fitness routine. However, with the stress of studying and the unforeseen events of everyday life, it can be difficult to stay on track. Here are some effective strategies for staying motivated over the long term.

3.2.1 Setting clear, progressive objectives

• Set achievable goals: Rather than aiming for daily training from the outset, start with 2 or 3 sessions a week.
• Measure your progress: Use a notebook or app to track your progress (distance covered, number of repetitions, etc.).
• Reward yourself: Associate each milestone reached with a reward (a piece of sportswear, an outing with friends, etc.).

3.2.2 Varying training sessions to avoid monotony

• Alternate types of exercise: Mix cardio, muscle strengthening and stretching for balanced progress.
• Change training locations: Explore different parks or fields to maintain the desire to train.
• Participate in sporting challenges: Join in challenges with friends or events organized to challenge yourself.

3.2.3 Finding a training partner or group

• Training with friends: exercising with others boosts motivation and helps you stay regular.
• Join a sports community: Many universities offer outdoor fitness groups.
• Follow sports coaches or influencers: Watching videos or following online programs can give a new boost to motivation.

✅ S ummary

• ✅ Set clear goals and monitor progress to stay motivated.
• ✅ Vary exercises and training locations to avoid fatigue.
• ✅ Train in a group or with a partner for mutual support.
• ✅ Adopt a positive frame of mind and accept the days when motivation drops.

4. Case study: How students integrate outdoor fitness into their daily lives

4.1 Student testimonials

The integration of outdoor fitness into students’ daily lives has transformed their lifestyle and well-being. Many students testify to the benefits they have seen after adopting this practice.

🗣 Thomas, 21, management student
“I’ve started training outdoors with a few friends during lunch breaks. It allows us to move without constraints and stay motivated together. Since then, I feel more energetic and focused in class.”

🗣 Léa, 20, law student
“Outdoor fitness is a real discovery for me. I didn’t feel like joining a gym, but by joining a group of students who train outdoors, I’ve found a free and super-efficient solution.”

🗣 Mehdi, 22, engineering student
“With my busy schedule, I didn’t think I’d have time for sport. But by incorporating outdoor HIIT sessions after class, I’ve managed to get organized and take care of my physical and mental health.”

4.2 How does outdoor fitness affect their well-being and studies?

The impact of outdoor fitness on students’ lives goes far beyond the physical. In addition to improving their physical condition, the practice has positive effects on their mental well-being and academic performance.

4.2.1 A beneficial effect on mental health

• Reduced stress and anxiety: Physical activity outdoors promotes the release of endorphins, the feel-good hormones.
• Improved concentration: students who take part in regular activities report a greater ability to pay attention in class.
• A way to decompress: Playing sports in the open air lets you cut the pressure of studying and clear your head.

4.2.2 A positive impact on academic results

• Better organization: Students who integrate sport into their daily lives develop a discipline that also serves them in their studies.
• Boost energy and productivity: an outdoor sports session reduces fatigue and improves motivation.
• A better life balance: Combining study and outdoor fitness helps you find the right balance between effort and relaxation.

4.2.3 Student testimonials

🗣 Sophie, 19, psychology student
“Outdoor sport helps me manage my stress before exams. After a running or muscle-building session in the college park, I feel more relaxed and focused.”

🗣 Lucas, 23, business school student
“I work better now that I’ve incorporated outdoor fitness into my schedule. Even a short 20-minute session between two classes is enough to restore my energy.”

4.3 Do student associations encourage this practice?

The development of outdoor fitness is increasingly supported by student associations that encourage the practice of sports in a collective and motivating environment. These initiatives play a key role in the democratization of physical activity in universities and colleges.

4.3.1 Local and national initiatives to promote outdoor sport

• University sports associations: Many BDEs and student associations organize collective outdoor fitness sessions.
• Student wellness programs: Some schools set up free initiatives to encourage students to engage in regular physical activity.
• Inter-university sports events: Challenges, competitions and open sessions give students a fun way to discover outdoor fitness.

4.3.2 The benefits of group outdoor fitness

• A community spirit: group training encourages mutual support and motivation.
• Greater accessibility: thanks to the associations, students discover exercises and techniques adapted to all levels.
• A solution to isolation: Joining a sports community helps to forge links and combat student loneliness.

4.3.3 Testimonials from committed students

🗣 Marie, 21, member of a university sports association
“At our university, we’ve set up weekly outdoor fitness sessions. It’s become an unmissable rendezvous for decompressing and meeting new people!”

🗣 Alex, 22, student and sports event organizer
“Thanks to the sports challenges we organize on campus, more and more students are daring to train outdoors. The atmosphere is motivating and everyone makes progress together.”

5. Focus on the impact of Herkules Fitness equipment at Lycée Louis-le-Grand

The Lycée Louis-le-Grand in Paris recently installed Herkules Fitness outdoor fitness stations, equipped with muscle-strengthening and cardio-training equipment. The initiative is designed to encourage students to engage in regular physical activity in a free and accessible environment.

5.1 How have these facilities changed the school’s sporting dynamic?

Since the installation of the facilities, many students have integrated outdoor training into their daily routine. These facilities help to develop physical fitness and improve concentration in class.

5.1.1 Equipment adapted to students’ needs

• Free access: Students can use the equipment at any time, outside class hours.
• A complement to PE lessons: These apparatus add a new dimension to sports activities at the school.

5.2 Student testimonials

🗣 Thomas, senior
“Herkules equipment is really top-notch! I was skeptical at first, but after a few tries with some buddies, we go almost every day. The machines like the elliptical are super practical between classes. Since then, I’ve noticed that my concentration in class has improved.”

🎯 Conclusion: Adopt outdoor fitness for a more dynamic student life!

🌿 O utdoor fitness is much more than just a physical activity: it’s a real lever for improving students’ well-being, concentration and social life. Accessible to all, it lets you move freely, without constraints or membership!

💪 Whether you’re a student, teacher or school leader, it’s time to encourage this practice to create dynamic and engaging outdoor sports spaces.

📞 Would you like to equip a campus or high school with suitable infrastructure? Contact us now for personalized support.

📩 Get a free quote in one click and discover our student-friendly outdoor fitness equipment!