An initiative to help any Student or Staff member in our community overcome barriers to exercising.

We support individuals facing a variety of challenges, which include:

• Stress: For example, Students feeling overwhelmed by academic pressures or Staff experiencing work-related stress.
• Mental health conditions: Such as individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, or other mental health issues.
• Physical health issues: For instance, those recovering from an injury or managing chronic conditions like arthritis.
• Disabilities: Including individuals with mobility impairments or sensory disabilities.
• Lack of experience and low confidence in the gym: For example, those who are new to exercising or feel intimidated by gym environments.
• Cultural factors: Such as individuals who may feel uncomfortable due to cultural or religious attire requirements.
• Hormonal changes: For example, those undergoing hormone replacement therapy or experiencing menopause.

If you would like to check if you are eligible, or check if the Scheme is suitable for you and your needs, please contact us at activewellness@kcl.ac.uk.

When you join the Scheme, you will be paired with an experienced coach for 8 weeks. Your coach will help you take your first steps in the gym, or make active lifestyle changes to improve your health and wellbeing.

To sign up fill out the form above. 

You will work with your coach on a one-to-one basis for 8 weeks. During this time, you can complete up to six sessions with your coach. You can choose for your sessions to be on Waterloo, Guy’s, or Strand campuses, or work with your coach remotely via Microsoft Teams.

Your first session will be an introduction, where you will get to know your coach and set your goals. In the final session, your coach will help you make a plan for staying active.

In-Person Coaching

Your first session with your coach will involve a tour of the gym facility, to help you feel comfortable and prepared for your first workout.

The in-person coaching sessions are focussed on building your confidence in the gym, increasing your knowledge of exercises that suit your preferences, ability, and fitness level, and preparing you to continue exercising independently once you complete the Scheme.

Your coach can also offer advice on wellness topics such as healthy eating, sleep hygiene, and stress management.

Remote Coaching

The remote coaching option is perfect for those who can't make it to any of the central campuses, or prefer working out at home.

It's designed to help you get active and focus on overall wellness, whether you're aiming to eat healthier, improve your sleep, or manage stress positively. Your coach will assist you to set goals, plan actions, and review your progress in each session.

As a scheme participant, you will also gain access to the campus gyms, group fitness classes, and the BeActive programme.

Can I take part if I am a total beginner in the gym and with fitness?

Absolutely! Many of our participants are completely new to the gym and fitness. Our sessions are designed to be beginner friendly, to gently introduce you to exercise and physical activity.

We understand that starting something new like exercise can sometimes feel daunting or overwhelming. That’s why our approach is not just about physical activity; it’s about creating a supportive environment where you feel comfortable and motivated to participate.

Most importantly, we want to make sure you enjoy your sessions. We believe that when you enjoy working out and see the benefits, whether that’s feeling stronger, more energised, or simply enjoying the sense of accomplishment, it becomes easier to stick with it and make positive, lasting changes for your health and wellbeing.

Can I take part if I have a particular health issue?

Regular exercise can make a big difference for many health conditions or help you manage them better. If you have a specific health issue, it is important that your exercise instructor knows about it so they can tailor exercises that are safe and effective for you.

We welcome clients with various conditions including cardiovascular (hypercholesterolemia, hypertension), respiratory (asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), endocrine (diabetes, obesity), skeletal and mobility (osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, osteoporosis, joint replacement, lower back pain), and mental health conditions (depression, stress, and anxiety).

For some health issues, we may ask you to speak to your GP before starting the programme, to get advice on what exercise may suit your needs best, and any precautions you should take.