Although studying and socializing can often leave room for little else, exercising is one of the most important things to keep up with as a busy college student. However, it can be difficult to force yourself to exercise when the only options are the dreary, under-construction Athletic Complex and the often-crowded “Estrogym.” Here’s a roundup of some offbeat ways to get your endorphins running while breaking the Washington University bubble.

Take a run in Forest Park

Located less than a block away from campus, this is the cheapest and most convenient way to start your day off right. Wake up early and enjoy a scenic view of the facilities opening for the day. You can even take a side trip to the zoo, which is located in the park itself. Familiarize yourself with a space larger than Central Park and one of the biggest assets of our campus location, all while keeping yourself fit.

Climb So iLL indoor rock-climbing gym

Let your adventurous side awaken as you take on the different walls available at St. Louis’ premiere climbing gym. Bring some friends and make a day of it as you experience the thrill of something new. This gym offers walls for all different skill levels, including beginners. The cost of a one-day pass is only $15.

Pure Barre

The sensation that is Pure Barre will soon be opening a location in Ladue. Suitable for all fitness levels, this ballet-based workout craze focuses on improving body areas that often don’t show results from simple gym sessions. Try this out if you’re interested in building lean muscle. Classes usually run around $21/per class or $180 for 10 classes, so it’s definitely an investment. Check out the Ladue location when it opens (they’re bound to have some grand opening specials) and see if it’s what you’ve been looking for.

Club Fitness on the Loop

If you’re a recently moved-off-campus upperclassman, walking all the way to campus can be a tiresome workout in and of itself. Instead, check out other gyms in the area, such as Club Fitness on the Delmar Loop. This gym is open 24 hours Monday through Friday and offers the same (or better, if you’ve ever frequented the AC) standard of machines and equipment as at school. Its most basic rate is only $10/month.

St. Louis Fun Runs

For an event/photo op that’ll be sure to make memories, be on the lookout for fun 5-kilometer races and half-marathons in the St. Louis area. These events are a fun way to bond with friends and club members or even do solo if you’re a serious runner. Coming up soon are the Glow Run this Saturday, the Mustache Dash 5K on Nov. 8 and The Hungry Turkey 5k on Nov. 27. Sign up in advance for early-bird specials!