We all want to be fit and trim, and to fit into those shorts as the weather starts getting warmer. But there are a few factors which stand in the way of us looking our best. Laziness, hectic schedule, and an ever increasing problem, a tight budget. As it happens, the Czech Republic is not only sport crazy, but reluctant to splash out on things that can easily be done for free. Exercising is certainly no exception to this, and thanks to a little research, we’ve found the 10 cheapest ways to get fit around the city of Prague, without parting with your precious crowns…
1. In-Line Skating
First of all, we know what you’re thinking. And no, in line skating is not only for 16 year olds. In fact, it is one of the most popular summer sports among Czech adults, who come out in their thousands to wheel across the city’s purpose-built roads and lanes. The downside of its popularity is that it can get a little busy, but hit the roads before noon and you’re guaranteed a free run. There are a number of popular spots in and around the city centre. Arguably the popular is on Braník, (tram stop Nádraží Braník). Starting just downhill from this stop, there is a beautiful stretch of road which goes south, straight along the Vltava and finishing down in the Zbraslav countryside. There are plenty of places to stop for a water (or beer, as it seems to be with many Czech skaters) and there is relaxing, stunning scenery throughout. There are however one or two small hills which need conquering if you are a beginner, but even so, there is the option to take the flatter roads. Skating is the perfect exercise to tighten your thighs and buttocks, it builds up stamina, and once you get the hang of it, it’s a lot of fun, regardless of your age!
Favourite Spots: Letná Park (Prague 7) , Stromovka (Prague 7), Vypich (Prague 5) Braník (Prague 4)
2. Nordic Walking
Nordic Walking is walking with special walking sticks, very similar to those used for cross country skiing. It’s not unusual to see people out and about using exactly the same sticks as they use for skiing, as many people have them hiding away at home, and of course this way it eliminates the need to invest in new ones. People tend to walk in groups, as couples or alone, it frankly makes no difference, and the result is a workout equivalent to a hike or a very brisk walk. With this sport, there is complete flexibility to how hard or easy you want to work out. It can be anything from a wander around the park, to a full on hike in the woods. Either way it is great cardio exercise and will tone you up in no time. Nordic walking was originally started as training for cross country skiers, but it rocketed in popularity and is now among one of the favourite free Czech sports – almost all weather conditions.
Favourite spots: Any city park, nature reserve, or even along the Vltava river. Braník (mentioned in the in-line skating section) is also popular for Nordic walkers.
3. City Hiking
This may sound like a generic and inevitable form of exercise, but in fact, Prague is magical in its wealth of nature, and there are plenty of superb routes to take which make you feel like you are miles away from the crowded cobbled streets. Of course, it is very tempting to leave the city and explore the countless hills and mountains surrounding it, but if you are pushed for time or would simply prefer to stay local, there is a lot to do without having to travel too far. One very popular city hike is on Divoká Šárka. Easily accessible by tram from Dejvická metro station (A line), this stunning nature reserve is extremely popular for hiking. Situated on the northwestern outskirts of the city, but an easy journey from the centre, it is one of the busiest spots for locals. It is a worthwhile historical trip too, as it is named after the warrior Šárka, who threw herself to her death from its cliffs. Also there is a public pool in the middle of the reserve, which is filled with spring water supplied from the spring creek which passes through the park.
Favourite spots: Prokopské údolí, Divoká Šárka, Klánovický les
Also, there is a downloadable Czech hiking map to track down a route of your choice: http://www.ceskyraj.cz/mapy/
4. Vigorous House Cleaning
Why not combine regular house chores with part of a planned work out? More often than not, even the most basic apartments in Prague are historic, and therefore spacious and hard to keep up with. It may come as a surprise but a typical spring clean (and what better time of year to do it) can burn off hundreds of calories – and it’s great for your mental health too, when you see your wonderful living room reach its full potential. You may have even earned a glass of nice Czech wine after such a workout, but just the one, if you’re counting the calories.
Favourite spots: The comfort of your own home
5. Those Little Changes
More and more of us are burdened by our modern and ever hectic work schedules, whether it is at the office or at home with the children. Thankfully there are some little changes which you could make that help you to get fit without even noticing. Try replacing your office chair with an inflatable exercise ball. This not only helps to build better posture, but discreetly tones up your middle and thighs, all while you work. Also, as public transport is so popular in Prague, you might want to make a point of getting off your tram a stop or two early, or taking the left side of the escalator out of the Metro station (generally the left side is used for climbing the steps, and the right side for standing still and waiting for technology to take you to the top). Can you make it all the way to the top without getting out of breath? Many can’t, and this is a superb form of exercising without cutting out time from your busy day.
Favourite spots: Anywhere and everywhere
6. Natural Swimming
Prague is special in this area, as there are some hidden gems around the city that not a lot of people, especially foreigners know about. But in fact the Czech authorities take pride in taking good care of some local lakes, making sure they are clean and safe enough to jump into on a warm summer day. One popular spot in just down the hill from Hospital Motol (tram stop Vozovna Motol), where there is a large lake full of locals swimming, or relaxing by the water with a book. Interestingly, there is one side of the lake which is free, but on the other side, there are now refreshment stands, public toilets, and showers, and it costs 50kc to get in. But this is without a time limit. You can spend the entire day there and swim until your heart’s content. Another swimming place is on Vodní nádrž Džbán, Prague 6. This is one of the most beautiful spots surrounded by sandy beaches and forest views. You can rent a boat, have a game of volleyball, or simply take a dip. If it interests you there is even a part of the lake for nudists. Again, it costs around 50kc to enter, but is limitless and infinitely cheaper than crowded, indoor pools.
7. Outdoor Rock Climbing
Granted, this is a slightly more extreme sport for those who are in no way afraid of heights, but with the right training and a few climbing buddies, this can be a refreshing new challenge that can make one feel pretty proud of themselves. The Czech Republic is inundated with outdoor areas for rock climbing, and it has become such a fad that there are communities which meet online and arrange special meetings. This sport requires a high level of safety and professional guidance is necessary, so strictly speaking it is not a free sport, but once you’ve learned the ways of climbing it is a rewarding sport indeed. Before you take on Tarzan-like climbing routes in the wilderness, it is advised to try your hand at indoor climbing first. A good place to practice is the Adrenaline Pit, Václavské nám. 835/15, 11000 Praha 1.
Favourite spots: Prachovské skály, České Švýcarsko national park,
8. Run for It!
Prague is renowned for its marathons, and each year more and more people are getting their running shoes on and heading for the streets. But running is by no means only for professionals. Prague is simply full of runners who can’t wait to get outside as soon as the snow has disappeared. And they can be seen practically anywhere, especially close to the river. Unless you decide to join a gym, running will never cost you a crown, and it will do wonders for your mental and physical health. Visit
http://www.praguemarathon.com to find out about running clubs, social meetings, or even advice about which place is best depending on where you live.
9. Boat Rowing
There is absolutely no doubt that Prague is at it prettiest on a summer’s night, from the view of a drifting paddle boat on the Vltava. But this romantic idea could also be a superb way to keep fit. Paddle boats require a lot of upper body strength and work in the biceps, shoulders and back area, and in such delightful surroundings, you’d hardly notice you’re working out. Paddle boats are for rent on the Žofín Island, close to the National Theatre or right next to Charles Bridge, and in the summer months are open until 10pm. They cost approximately 90 Kč per boat, and a paddle boat can fit 4 adults inside – even more of a workout…
10. Have sex
And finally, how could we forget? Why shouldn’t this count as one of your exercises? Regular sex not only lifts your serotonin levels (the feel good chemical that our bodies release when we laugh) but it naturally keeps you in shape. Experts have even said that an active sex drive can not only reduce the risk of heart disease, but can act as a perfect natural sleep aid, resulting in a more relaxed mood in everyday life. So who needs more encouragement? Prague is the city of love, afterall…
