Finding a gym as a student in Amsterdam can be tricky. You need affordable membership fees, flexible contracts, and locations close to your university or student housing. The best student gyms in Amsterdam combine budget-friendly pricing with quality equipment, group classes, and a student-friendly atmosphere. This guide breaks down the top options, including SportCity, TrainMore, Basic-Fit, and university sports centres, so you can choose the right fit for your fitness routine and wallet.
Table des matières:
Why Student Gym Memberships in Amsterdam Are Different
Amsterdam is a compact city with a high density of students. Many gyms offer special student discounts or off-peak memberships to attract this demographic. Unlike standard commercial gyms, student-focused facilities often have shorter commitment periods, lower monthly fees, and locations near campuses. You’ll also find that some university sports centres provide access to multiple sports, not just gym equipment, at a fraction of private club prices.
Top 5 Best Student Gyms in Amsterdam
1. SportCity – Best for Premium Facilities at Student Prices
SportCity has several locations in Amsterdam, including near the VU University and in the city centre. They offer a special Student Fit membership for €19.95 per month, which includes access to all clubs during off-peak hours (weekdays until 16:00 and all weekend). This is ideal for students with daytime schedules. Facilities include cardio and weight zones, group classes, and a sauna. The downside: peak hours are restricted, and you can’t visit after 4 PM on weekdays unless you upgrade.
2. TrainMore – Budget-Friendly with 24/7 Access
TrainMore is known for its low-cost, no-frills model. Student memberships start at €15.99 per month with a one-year contract, or €19.99 monthly without commitment. All clubs are open 24/7, so you can train late after studying. Locations include Amsterdam Zuid, Amstel, and near the University of Amsterdam (UvA). Equipment is basic but sufficient for most workouts. TrainMore is a top choice if you want the cheapest option and don’t need classes or a pool.
3. Basic-Fit – Widest Network and Flexible Plans
Basic-Fit is the largest low-cost chain in the Netherlands, with dozens of clubs in Amsterdam. Their student-friendly Basic membership costs €17.99 per month with a one-year contract, or you can pay €24.99 for a flexible monthly plan. You get access to all clubs in the Netherlands and Belgium, free group classes, and basic equipment. Many locations are near universities, like the Basic-Fit at Roeterseiland or Science Park. The only catch: crowded during peak hours, especially between 17:00 and 20:00.
4. Universum Sportcentrum (UvA) – For UvA Students Only
The University of Amsterdam (UvA) operates its own sports centre, Universum Sportcentrum, located near Science Park. Membership is only open to UvA students and staff. Prices are extremely low: a semester card costs around €85 (about €17 per month) and includes the gym, group classes, climbing wall, and squash courts. The equipment is modern, and the atmosphere is purely student-focused. If you study at UvA, this is arguably the best value.
5. VU Sportcentrum – For VU Students
Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam (VU) has its own sports centre on campus, offering a gym, swimming pool, group classes, and courts. A student membership costs approximately €15 per month with a semester contract. The facilities are high-quality, and you can also join sports teams. The main limitation: it’s only for VU students and staff, and the location is in Zuid, which may be far if you live elsewhere.
Comparison Table: Prices and Features
| Gym | Student Price (per month) | Contract | Locations | Key Perks |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SportCity | €19.95 (off-peak) | Monthly | Multiple, near VU | Sauna, classes, premium equipment |
| TrainMore | €15.99 (1-year) / €19.99 monthly | Flexible | Several, 24/7 | Lowest price, 24/7 access |
| Basic-Fit | €17.99 (1-year) / €24.99 monthly | Flexible | Many, near UvA/HvA | Classes, large network |
| Universum Sportcentrum | ~€17 (semester card) | Semester | Science Park (UvA) | Climbing, squash, student-only |
| VU Sportcentrum | ~€15 (semester) | Semester | VU Campus Zuid | Pool, classes, sports teams |
What to Look for in a Student Gym
When evaluating the best student gyms in Amsterdam, consider these factors:
- Location proximity: Choose a gym near your university or home to avoid wasting time commuting.
- Contract flexibility: Many students move during summer or exchange semesters. Look for monthly or semester-based contracts without cancellation fees.
- Peak hour restrictions: Some student memberships limit access to off-peak hours. Check if those hours match your schedule.
- Facilities and equipment: Do you need free weights, machines, cardio, or a pool? Make sure the gym has what you need.
- Group classes: If you enjoy yoga, spinning, or HIIT, look for gyms that include classes in the membership.
- Hidden costs: Some gyms charge an enrollment fee (e.g., Basic-Fit €25) or require a key card deposit. Factor these into the total cost.
Common Mistakes Students Make When Choosing a Gym
Avoid these pitfalls to get the most from your membership:
- Signing a long-term contract without checking the notice period. Some gyms require 30 days’ notice, and if you forget, you pay an extra month.
- Choosing the cheapest option without considering peak hour restrictions. TrainMore is cheap, but if you can only train after 4 PM, SportCity’s off-peak plan won’t work.
- Forgetting to ask about student discounts. Many gyms don’t advertise student rates. Always ask if they have a student tariff.
- Not visiting during your intended workout time. A gym may look great at 10 AM but be overcrowded at 6 PM. Do a trial visit at your usual time.
How to Save Even More on Gym Memberships
Beyond choosing a student-focused gym, here are extra tips to reduce costs:
- Check if your university subsidises gym memberships. Some programmes offer discounts at external gyms.
- Use student discount platforms like StudentenKorting or ISIC. Occasionally, you’ll find promo codes for Basic-Fit or TrainMore.
- Share a membership with a friend? Not allowed officially, but some gyms have duo deals.
- Pay annually. If you stay for a full academic year, annual payment often lowers the monthly rate.
Frequently Asked Questions About Student Gyms in Amsterdam
Can I get a gym membership without a Dutch bank account?
Yes, most gyms accept international credit cards or PayPal. However, some require a Dutch IBAN for direct debit. Check with the specific gym before signing up.
Are there any gyms near the University of Amsterdam (UvA) city centre?
Yes. Basic-Fit at Roeterseiland and SportCity near Leidseplein are within walking distance. TrainMore has a club near Amsterdam Centraal, about 15 minutes by tram.
What is the cheapest student gym in Amsterdam?
TrainMore is the cheapest at €15.99 per month with a one-year contract. For university students, VU Sportcentrum and Universum Sportcentrum are even cheaper but restricted to their own students.
Do student gyms have free trial days?
Many do. Basic-Fit offers a free day pass on their website. SportCity and TrainMore sometimes have promotional weeks. University sports centres may allow a free trial lesson.
Can I cancel my gym membership if I leave Amsterdam for the summer?
It depends on your contract. Monthly contracts can be cancelled with 30 days’ notice. Semester or annual contracts may not allow mid-term cancellation unless you provide proof of moving abroad.
Are there any student-only gyms in Amsterdam?
Universum Sportcentrum and VU Sportcentrum are exclusively for students and staff of their respective universities. Other gyms are open to the public but offer student rates.
Final Recommendations for Choosing the Best Student Gym in Amsterdam
Your choice ultimately depends on your priorities. If you study at UvA or VU, the university sports centres offer unbeatable value and a student community. For maximum flexibility and 24/7 access, TrainMore is hard to beat. If you want a balance of quality and price without being tied to a single campus, Basic-Fit’s wide network is convenient. And if you prefer premium facilities and can work out during off-peak hours, SportCity’s Student Fit membership is a solid investment.
Before committing, always take advantage of free trials or day passes. Visit the gym at the time you plan to train, check the equipment condition, and read the fine print on cancellation policies. By doing your research, you’ll find one of the best student gyms in Amsterdam that fits your lifestyle and budget.
Photo by Jahanzeb Ahsan on Unsplash
Great overview! I’m a student at UvA and considering TrainMore for the 24/7 access. Do you know if the €15.99/month rate requires a one-year contract, or is there a shorter commitment option?
Good question! The €15.99/month rate at TrainMore does require a one-year contract. If you prefer no commitment, the flexible plan is €19.99 per month. Both options give you 24/7 access, so it depends on how long you plan to stay in Amsterdam.
Does SportCity’s Student Fit membership include access to the sauna? That would be a nice perk during winter.
Yes, SportCity’s Student Fit membership does include sauna access at all locations. It’s a great perk, especially during colder months. Just remember that this membership is limited to off-peak hours (weekdays until 16:00 and all weekend), so plan your visits accordingly.
I’m an international student living near Science Park. The Universum Sportcentrum sounds perfect, but is it only for UvA students? I’m at a different university.
Unfortunately, Universum Sportcentrum is exclusively for UvA students and staff. If you’re at a different university, check if your own institution has a sports centre. Alternatively, Basic-Fit has a location at Science Park that is open to everyone, with student-friendly rates starting at €17.99/month.
I’ve been to Basic-Fit near Roeterseiland and it’s always packed after 5 PM. Are there any off-peak times that are less crowded?
Yes, Basic-Fit tends to be busiest from 17:00 to 20:00 on weekdays. For a quieter experience, try going early in the morning (before 8 AM) or during the late evening after 20:00. Weekend afternoons are also usually calmer.