Staying fit as a student in Montreal doesn’t have to break the bank. With so many gyms, fitness studios, and budget-friendly workout options, students can easily find a place that suits their needs. Montreal has plenty to offer if you’re looking for a cheap gym close to campus, a boutique fitness studio for specialized workouts, or free outdoor alternatives.

This guide will walk you through the best gyms and fitness studios near student housing in Montreal, highlighting affordability, accessibility, and the best deals for students.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Gym

Before diving into the best fitness spots in Montreal, here are some key factors students should consider when selecting a gym:

1. Proximity to Student Housing

If you’re a student at McGill, Concordia, Université de Montréal (UdeM), or UQAM, it's essential to choose a gym near your residence or campus to stay consistent.

2. Cost & Student Discounts

Many gyms in Montreal offer special student rates, flexible memberships, and trial passes. Some university gyms even provide access at a fraction of the cost of commercial gyms.

3. Equipment & Facilities

Depending on your workout goals, you’ll want to check if the gym has essential machines, free weights, squat racks, cardio equipment, or extras like saunas and pools.

4. Group Fitness Classes & Specialized Training

If you enjoy structured workouts, consider gyms that offer classes like yoga, pilates, CrossFit, HIIT, spin, or martial arts.

5. 24/7 Access & Flexible Hours

FFindinga gym with extended or 24/7 hours can be a major advantage. for students juggling school, work, and social life

Best Budget-Friendly Gyms for Students

If you’re looking for an affordable, no-frills gym that gets the job done, here are some of the best options:

Énergie Cardio

📍 Multiple Locations
💰 Student Discounts Available

Énergie Cardio is a well-known fitness chain in Montreal. It has several locations near student areas. It offers affordable memberships with various equipment, group classes, and a motivating atmosphere.

Econofitness

📍 Various Locations (Downtown, Plateau, Côte-des-Neiges)
💰 Memberships Starting at $10/Month

Econofitness is one of the cheapest gym options for students. For as low as $10/month, members have 24/7 access all the essential equipment for strength training and cardio.

Buzzfit

📍 Locations in Côte-des-Neiges, Ahuntsic, and Laval
💰 Budget-Friendly Pricing

Buzzfit is similar to Econofitness but offers a more relaxed atmosphere. Its student-friendly locations offer free weights, machines, and massage chairs.

McGill & Concordia Gyms

📍 On-Campus (McGill Athletics Complex & Concordia Le Gym)
💰 Special Student Rates

McGill and Concordia both offer excellent gym facilities at affordable prices. These are some of the most convenient options for students who live on campus.

Specialized Fitness Studios for Unique Workouts

For students looking for something beyond traditional gyms, these fitness studios offer specialized classes:

Yoga & Pilates

🧘‍♀️ Moksha Yoga (now Modo Yoga) – A hot yoga studio with student discounts.
🧘‍♂️ Studio Bliss – Offers affordable yoga and pilates classes in the Plateau.

CrossFit & HIIT

🏋️‍♂️ CrossFit Montreal – High-intensity training for students looking to push their limits.
🔥 OrangeTheory Fitness – A mix of cardio and strength training in a structured class format.

Boxing & Martial Arts

🥊 Grant Brothers Boxing – Great for beginners and advanced boxers.
🥋 Académie Frontenac – Offers boxing, kickboxing, and self-defense classes.

Spin & Dance

🚴 Spin Énergie – A high-energy indoor cycling studio.
💃 Studio Bizz – Offers dance fitness, Zumba, and hip-hop classes.

Best Student Housing Areas & Nearby Gyms

Downtown (McGill, Concordia)

🏋️ GoodLife Fitness – Large commercial gym with student deals.
💪 Énergie Cardio & Econofitness – Budget-friendly options within walking distance.

Plateau & Mile End

🏋️ CrossFit Mile End – An excellent option for CrossFit lovers.
🧘 Studio Bizz – Ideal for dance and yoga enthusiasts.

Côte-des-Neiges (UdeM, HEC, Polytechnique)

💪 YMCA NDG – A full-service gym with pool access.
🏋️ Université de Montréal’s CEPSUM – Offers student memberships at low rates.

Hochelaga-Maisonneuve (UQAM)

🥊 Académie Frontenac – Best for martial arts and boxing.
💪 Econofitness – Affordable gym with flexible hours.

Free & Low-Cost Fitness Alternatives

If you’re on a tight budget, here are some great ways to stay active for free in Montreal:

1. University Recreation Programs

McGill, Concordia, and UdeM offer students free or low-cost fitness classes and sports activities.

2. Outdoor Workout Spots

🏃 Mount Royal Park – Great for running and hiking.
🚲 Parc La Fontaine & Lachine Canal – Perfect for cycling and outdoor workouts.

3. Community Centers & Public Pools

Many boroughs in Montreal have free or low-cost public pools and gym facilities.

Conclusion & Final Tips

Staying active as a student in Montreal is easy, with many affordable gyms and fitness studios. Whether you prefer a budget gym like Econofitness, a university gym, or a boutique studio, there’s an option for everyone.

💡 Final Tips:
✅ Check for student discounts and free trials before committing.
✅ Choose a gym close to your residence or university for convenience.
✅ Consider free outdoor workouts if you’re on a tight budget.

No matter your fitness goals, there’s a perfect gym for you in Montreal. So grab your gym bag, find your favourite workout spot, and start sweating!