Sports
Sports know no language barriers! It’s a great way of meeting new people and maling friends in your new community!
Running
People running outside – in parks or in the streets – is a common sight in Germany. It is an easy way to stay fit and healthy. Some people prefer to run in groups while others start off alone. There are plenty of spaces in Germany that you can explore by running.
Student sports
Every university in Germany provides plenty of sports activities (Hochschulsport): from swimming and dancing to tai chi, gymnastics, dancing, yoga… Each university offers a slightly different program but surely all students can find something that they like! It is important to register for the course you want to join. Check out deadlines for registration. Courses that are very popular like Zumba are booked out early. Some universities offer their courses for free, while others charge a small extra fee.
Buddy Tip
I was looking for a dance class and joined a group at my uni. At the Ruhr-Universität Bochum you find current offers on: http://buchung.hochschulsport.ruhr-uni-bochum.de/angebote/aktueller_zeitraum Register and go for it!
Sports clubs
In Germany, many people organise their sports and other leisure activities in clubs (club/society = der Verein). There are local football clubs, bowling clubs, dance and theatre clubs and many more. Anyone who wants can start a club of their own. If you simply want to join an existent club just pay the annual fee and join their regular meetings and participate. Information about community-based clubs you can get best by asking local friends or through online search machines. Club fees are relatively low (about 4 to 10 euros per month).
Buddy Tip
I love playing football! When I heard about a local football club, I went to some of their trainings and joined the team. It was a great way to make friends outside of university. I have learned a lot about German leisure culture and made friends for life!