Practising sport while living abroad: your guide to integrating
Published on · 2 min read
Doing sport while studying abroad helps you integrate, improve your health, and make new friends. Find real ideas and tips from students.
Practising sport while living abroad is not just about health: it’s one of the most natural and powerful ways to make friends, integrate, and feel part of your new city.
Why sport is key when you study abroad
When you arrive in a new city, your routine disappears. And that’s where sport can become your anchor. It doesn’t just help you physically, it also stabilises you emotionally and mentally:
It relieves the stress of the first few weeks, when everything is new
It gives you structure: a 7pm yoga class can save your day
It improves sleep and concentration, which is key for performing well in class
It reconnects you with yourself when everything around you is changing
A student in Granada said their zumba class was the only stable thing during their first three months living abroad.
Sport as a way to make friends
You don’t need to speak the language perfectly to join a match. Nor do you need a contact network to join a hiking group.
Where to look:
Amateur university teams: football, volleyball, basketball
Group classes at local gyms (zumba, crossfit, pilates)
Weekend hiking or cycling groups
Student sports associations (some offer discounts with a student ID)
In Valencia, Sundays often include cycling routes around the Albufera. In Madrid, Retiro Park fills with yoga and running groups open to newcomers.
How Uniwords helps you
Not sure where to start or feeling shy about going alone? Go to the Uniwords forum. Post something like:
“Hi, I’m looking for people to do yoga in the park in Barcelona. Anyone in?”
Uniwords tip: find the sport that works for you
Not everyone loves running or lifting weights. Maybe your sport is dancing, climbing, table tennis, or simply walking around the city. Find what makes you feel good and turn it into a habit.
So… what now?
Move for yourself, for your health, but also for your community.