As a student who has recently taken the plunge and moved abroad, I know just how important it is to keep up with exercise while navigating all the changes that come with such a big move. Not everyone is a fan of traditional gyms, and they can be quite costly too. So, after some adventurous exploration, I’ve stumbled upon some fantastic (and mostly free!) alternative ways to stay active in KL. Let me share them with you!
Cycling
Check out Cycling Kuala Lumpur, Bicycle Map—a fantastic guide compiled by passionate volunteers who want to make KL a cycle-friendly city for everyone. Get the lowdown at cyclingkl.blogspot.com or connect on Facebook (facebook.com/groups/CyclingKualaLumpur) and Instagram (@cyclingkualalumpur).
Running
If you’re a fan of running and breaking a sweat, you’re in luck! KL offers plenty of options to get your heart pumping:
- Marathons: Explore the exciting and picturesque marathons happening across Southeast Asia. From Kuala Lumpur to Penang, and even as far as Angkor Wat in Cambodia or the Great Wall of China, the list is packed with thrilling events. Discover more at RunFunTravel
- Hash House Harriers: Join the Hash House Harriers (HHH or H3), an international community of non-competitive running social clubs. Hashes or runs are organized by clubs, and it’s all about enjoying the experience while calling yourself a “Hasher.” Check out the Petaling Hash House Harriers—a mixed group of locals, expats, ladies, and gents who run for fun and socialize. Visit ph3.org for more information.
- Park Run: Looking for a free community event? Try Parkrun! Walk, jog, run, volunteer, or simply spectate—it’s all about the positive, welcoming, and inclusive experience. There’s no time limit, and nobody finishes last. Simply register and download your printable barcode before joining the 5k run every Saturday morning. The Presint 18 parkrun in Putrajaya is currently the place to be. Find out more at parkrun.my/presint18
Malaysia Tower Running Association
Want to try something unique? Give tower running a go! This exhilarating sport involves sprinting up tall buildings’ flights of stairs, and it’s gaining popularity worldwide. The Malaysia Towerrunning Association (MTA) aims to promote this sport, build a strong community, and develop a Towerrunning Tour for Malaysia. Learn more at towerrunningmalaysia.com.
Obstacle Challenges
If you’re up for obstacle races, check out Tough Mudder (toughmudder.my) and Spartan Race (https://my.spartan.com/en/race/find-race). They offer varied lengths and difficulties to challenge your strength and agility.
Badminton
Immerse yourself in Malaysia’s unofficial national pastime by joining badminton courts scattered throughout the city. Use apps specifically designed to find players or join the Facebook group “Badminton @ Kuala Lumpur/Selangor” for a fun and active way to connect with others.
Netball
If you’re a woman over 18 years old, join the casual Pick Up And Play sessions hosted by MK Tigers Netball on Wednesdays at GIS. For more serious players, training sessions are available on Tuesdays. Connect with them on Instagram and drop them a message for further details: MK Tigers Netball.
Hiking
Malaysia is a hiker’s paradise, with countless breathtaking trails to explore. Start with a quick Google search for Hiking in KL, or connect with fellow hikers in these groups:
Trailblazing hiking club Malaysia
Other Ideas
Stay connected with fellow sports enthusiasts through the AFA Superapp, which offers over 50 different sports activities and promotes active and healthy lifestyles. Visit afa.community to discover existing sports activities near you or create your own event.
Additionally, the Rovo app connects individuals interested in joining sport and fitness activities. Although it may not be available on newer phone operating systems, it’s worth exploring for future reference.
Maintaining an active lifestyle in Malaysia is both exciting and accessible. From cycling and running to badminton and hiking, you have a wide range of options to keep your exercise routine engaging and enjoyable. Embrace these opportunities to connect with the community, explore the city, and nurture your physical well-being. If you have any other activities to add to this list, please share them with us. Let’s stay active together and make the most of our time in Malaysia.
