While Raleigh has no shortage of exercise studios to choose from, not all exercise has to come at a price. Here’s our guide to getting your workout in while spending little to nothing.

Get outdoors

Whether you’re a walker, runner, cyclist, or an all-around outdoors enthusiast, Raleigh is a great place to explore. Triangle parks are beloved among hikers, runners, and bikers alike.

With dozens of parks in Raleigh to choose from, each offers a variety of activities to get you going. For some quick pick-up basketball, visit Lions Park, or take a stroll with views on the 2.8-mile loop of Lake Lynn Park.

Join the club

If you're looking to merge exercise and community, the Oak City has plenty of opportunities. Have some two-wheel fun with Oaks & Spokes, a Raleigh nonprofit uplifting the local cycling community with a mission to get Raleigh rolling.

If you prefer to hit the ground running, try pounding the pavement with Raleigh Trail Runners. This local group combines running with socializing throughout the Triangle. Plus meetings are six times a week, making it easier to catch up with them.

Take a class

Keep exercise low stakes by merging fun, movement, and socialization with a class. Classes provide the opportunity to not only exercise, but also try something new.

Chavis Community Center offers classes like Zumba, line dancing, and more starting at $5 or you try a local studio. Oak City Yoga offers newbies two weeks of unlimited classes for $20.