Dodge the drizzle: top indoor sports

Let’s be honest, when the temperature drops, the last thing most of us want to do is jog through the drizzle or brave the freezing wind at the park. But just because it’s grey outside doesn’t mean your fitness routine has to hibernate. London is full of amazing indoor sport spots, from spin studios that feel like nightclubs to Olympic swimming pools that make you feel like an athlete.

Here are 5 indoor sports to try this winter that’ll keep you warm, fit, and maybe even give you a new hobby.

 Spin Your Heart Out at Psycle London

Spin classes are basically the club nights of the fitness world, minus the hangover. Think loud music, flashing lights, and instructors who hype you up like your biggest fan. Personally, this is my favourite sport regardless if it's sunny or cold! 

After your Psycle class, you’ll leave sweaty, smiling, and ready to conquer the day. I've tried many cycling classes and this is by far my favourite studio. However, of course you are free to try some other studios!

They have many studios around London so I'll leave you the link so you can find the closest one to your home! 

Click here! Link

Don't worry if this is your first time, they will guide you through the bike set up process and give you the right shoes, so don’t worry if you’ve never clipped into a bike before. Bring a towel and water bottle, you’ll need both!

Tip: They have Students Discounts if you decide to buy a full membership!

Padel at Padium

If tennis and squash had a baby, it would be padel. Fast-paced, social, and ridiculously fun. Even though padel and tennis are different sports, it's very easy to go from tennis to padel!  

Padium in Canary Wharf is London’s sleekest padel venue, complete with indoor courts so you can play no matter what the weather’s doing.

📍 10 Bank St, London E14 4DE

Click here for the link!

Tip: Go for an “Intro to Padel” session if you’re new, it’s the best way to learn the ropes and meet other newbies. Bring friends, or make some there!

Climb Away the Winter Blues at VauxWall West

When the weather’s rubbish, head indoors and get climbing. Bouldering is a full-body workout that feels more like a puzzle than exercise, you’ll use your brain and your muscles.

VauxWall West is super central, friendly, and perfect for beginners. No ropes, no harness, just you, a soft mat, and some seriously satisfying problem-solving.

They also have many centres so check out their webpage to see which one is closest to you!

Click here for the link! 

Top tip: Book a quick induction, it’s fun and makes sure you stay safe. And yes, climbing shoes can be rented (thankfully).

 London Aquatics Centre

This place isn’t just any pool, it’s the Olympic one. Whether you’re doing laps like Michael Phelps or just floating to clear your head, it’s a pretty inspiring spot to work out.

And because it’s indoors, it’s always the perfect temperature (no icy regret when you dive in).

📍 Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, Stratford E20 2ZQ

Click here to check out their website!

Top tip: Bring your student ID, discounts are often available. And if you’ve been glued to your laptop all day, a gentle swim can do wonders for your back and posture.

 Pilates at Every Pilates Studio

Pilates is the ultimate mind-body reset. It’s low-impact but works muscles you didn’t even know existed (your abs will thank you later).

Basically every pilates studio offers cosy, small-group classes perfect for beginners. You can even try reformer Pilates if you’re feeling adventurous, those machines look intense but are so satisfying once you get the hang of it.

I'll leave you the link for a studio that is super close to Butlers Wharf, however they are MANY Pilates studios in London you can try out!

Click here for link!

3 Copper Row, London SE1 2LH

Top tip: Many studios do first-class discounts or multi-class passes. It’s a great way to stretch, strengthen, and unwind during essay season.

Finally, winter in London doesn’t have to mean hibernation. Whether you’re spinning, climbing, paddling, or stretching, there’s something indoors for every vibe.

So grab your friends and your student IDs, it’s time to make your winter workouts something you actually look forward to! :)