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Devon fitness groups - National Fitness Day
16 Sep 2026
To celebrate National Fitness Day, we're taking a look at various Exeter fitness groups, making sure there's something for everyone.
National Fitness Day is the perfect reminder that getting active doesn't have to mean signing up for an expensive gym membership or tackling fitness alone. Across Devon, there are fantastic fitness communities that help people stay motivated, make new friends, and discover activities they genuinely enjoy.
Whether you're looking to improve your fitness, try something new, spend more time outdoors, or find activities for the whole family, there are plenty of welcoming groups throughout the South West ready to help you get moving. At Tangelo, we know that an active lifestyle often means travelling to training sessions, events, and meet-ups, so we've rounded up some of our favourite local fitness groups to inspire your next adventure.
Plymouth Park Life Fitness
If fresh air and friendly faces sound more appealing than a busy gym, Plymouth Park Life Fitness could be the perfect fit.
Based in Hartley Park, this outdoor fitness community offers varied training sessions that combine strength, cardio, mobility, and functional fitness. What makes it particularly appealing is its focus on creating a supportive environment where people of different abilities can exercise together and build confidence. The group also hosts a range of social activities, making it ideal if you're looking to meet like-minded people while improving your fitness.
Plymouth Open Water Swimmers
Open water swimming continues to grow in popularity, and Plymouth has a thriving community of sea swimmers.
Plymouth Open Water Swimmers brings together people who enjoy the physical and mental wellbeing benefits of outdoor swimming. Whether you're training for an event, looking to improve your endurance, or simply enjoy taking a dip in the sea with others, joining a local swim group can make the experience safer and more social.
Exeter Wheelers Academy
Cycling is one of the best ways to improve fitness while exploring the beautiful Devon countryside.
Exeter Wheelers Cycling Club has been active for over 100 years and offers opportunities for cyclists of all ages. Their Youth Academy provides a fun, safe environment where young riders can develop cycling skills, gain confidence, and meet fellow cycling enthusiasts. The wider club also hosts a variety of social and training rides throughout the week.
Exeter Quayside Bootcamp
For those who enjoy group training and plenty of encouragement, Exeter Quayside Bootcamp offers energetic outdoor sessions in one of the city's most scenic locations.
Held on Exeter Quay, these group fitness classes focus on helping participants burn calories, build strength, and improve overall fitness while exercising alongside a welcoming community. The combination of fresh air, expert coaching, and group motivation makes this a great option for beginners and experienced fitness enthusiasts alike.
Parkrun
Perhaps the most accessible fitness community of all, parkrun welcomes participants of every age and ability.
Taking place every Saturday morning across the UK, parkrun events are free, community-focused 5K events where you can walk, jog, run, volunteer, or simply support others. There are numerous parkrun locations across Devon and Cornwall, making it easy to find one close to home. Junior parkrun events also offer a fantastic introduction to fitness for children aged 4-14.
Bonus Ideas for Trying Something New
If you're looking for something a little different this National Fitness Day, Devon also offers plenty of alternative activities to explore. From paddleboard yoga in Exmouth and trampoline fitness in Exeter to aerial arts classes in Plymouth and dance-based fitness sessions in Totnes and Dartmouth, there's no shortage of creative ways to stay active.
Torbay Running Club
Whether you're training for your first 5K, preparing for the Torbay Half Marathon, or simply looking to stay active, Torbay Running Club offers a welcoming environment for runners of all abilities. The club organises regular training sessions throughout the week and provides expert coaching, social runs, and opportunities to compete in local and regional races. Joining a running club can be a great way to stay motivated while exploring some of the beautiful coastal routes Torbay has to offer.
Torbay Leisure Centre Fitness Classes
For those who enjoy the energy of group workouts, Torbay Leisure Centre offers a wide variety of fitness classes suitable for different interests and ability levels. From indoor cycling and high-intensity interval training (HIIT) sessions to yoga and strength-based classes, there's something for everyone. Group exercise classes can be a fantastic way to build a routine, meet new people, and stay accountable to your fitness goals.
OuterEdge Dartmoor Run
If you’re a more experienced runner who enjoys a challenge, a regular run on Dartmoor might be right up your street. OuterEdge hold weekly Wednesday night runs, meeting at a different location on the southern fringes of Dartmoor. There are usually between 10 and 30 runners of different abilities, and the runs often cover six to seven miles of the National Park! It’s all about escaping to the hills for an hour or so.
For more information on the runs, head to the Facebook group ‘OuterEdge Running Group’.
Get Active This National Fitness Day
One of the best things about fitness groups is that they provide accountability, support, and community. Whether you're training for a race, improving your wellbeing, or simply looking to spend more time outdoors, joining a local group can make fitness far more enjoyable and sustainable.
This National Fitness Day, why not challenge yourself to try something new? You might discover a new hobby, meet new friends, and find the motivation you've been looking for.
And wherever your fitness journey takes you, Tangelo can help get you there. From practical hatchbacks to spacious SUVs with plenty of room for bikes, wetsuits, and fitness gear, we've got a vehicle to support every adventure.