15 Aug
Korean Fitness Culture
When I first moved to Korea, I had so many questions about what my new life was going to look like. One thing that I was eager to find out more about was the fitness culture of South Korea. Back in Canada, I was a regular member at my yoga studio and gym so I wanted to ensure that during my transition abroad I would be able to maintain my physical health. Whether you’re a new resident or a long-term expat, you will be happy to learn that Korea is wild about staying fit, so there won’t anything you can’t do. You might even find a new fitness hobby!
Joining A Traditional Gym
There are tons of options for gyms in Korea, from big fitness centers to local gyms. I prefer a bigger facility because they have various classes I enjoy such as yoga and spinning. I have also hired an English speaking personal trainer at my gym to help give me structure to my workouts. If you are looking to save some money, you can join a smaller gym for as little as 20,000 won a month (14$ USD). The only catch is that they might not have all the equipment you’re used to back home. I recommend joining a gym in the first few months that you arrive so that you can get the best possible payment plan.
CrossFit And Other Fitness Programs
Koreans have been crazy about CrossFit and other fitness membership clubs in the past 15 years. There are over 100 CrossFit gyms across the country, so you will be able to find one if this is your thing. However, with an average monthly cost of 200,000 KRW (approx. $250 USD), it’s obviously a HUGE investment! That being said, my CrossFit friends wouldn’t let anything get between them and their WOD (workout of the day).
Bike Riding
If you are moving to Seoul, I highly recommend getting in your fitness goals by biking. Biking is a huge part of fitness culture in Korea. There are bike paths that will take you across the entire city and it’s one of my favorite ways to get around during the spring and summer months. The Han river has pathways that will take you across the city and are well-lit at night. I love the convenience of biking along the Han so I do it often!
I bought my bike on a second-hand app called Carrot Market (당근 마켓) but there is also the option to rent a bike for 2,000 won an hour through the city bike app called Ddareungi (따릉이). Bike stations are located across the city and you can easily drop them off once you get to your destination. Here’s a how-to Youtube Short on how to do it!
Exploring the Outdoors
Korea has so many fun opportunities for outdoor activities. The main tip I can give is getting out there and exploring the full range of mountains in Seoul , especially in the Fall! My favorite hiking trail is Ansan because it only takes about an hour and half up and down, but Bukhansan National Park in Seoul is one the most stunning hikes I’ve done so far! It really feels like you are on top of the whole city. I have found that the trails across Seoul are well-maintained and suited for all fitness levels. In the spirit of balance, I like to enjoy Korean rice wine called makgeolli and some fried kimchi and seafood pancakes after a hike.
Taking Advantage of the Korean Health System
Understanding the Korean healthcare system can help you maintain your health and enjoy many of the treatments that are offered here. All Creverese employees recieve national health insurance that covers the large majority of your needs. Since moving to Korea, I often visit the Oriental Medicine Clinics (한의원) where you can receive acupuncture, cupping, sports massages and other treatments for as little as 10,000 won (7$ USD) per visit. Many hospitals and clinics in Seoul also have English-speaking staff, which can make it easier to address any health concerns.
Embracing Korean Cuisine
I was really unfamiliar with Korean food when I first arrived because I rarely ate it in Canada but now it’s the mainstay of my diet. Korean food is not only delicious but also offers a variety of healthy options. Traditional dishes like kimchi, bibimbap, and bulgogi are often packed with vegetables and lean proteins that keep me full while teaching. Kimchi is also great for your gut health because it’s fermented and rich in probiotics. One of the tips I give to new teachers is to try to eat as much Korean food as possible. Not only are they healthy, but they are the most affordable way to eat too!
These are just some of the ways I’ve taken advantage of the fitness culture in Korea so far. Whether you are a novice to fitness or you want to make sure you won’t have to give up your latest fitness hobby, there’s nothing you can’t find in Korea!
Michelle Duquette, Marketing Assistant
Michelle Duquette is from Toronto, Canada and moved to South Korea in 2015. She has a Bachelors in English literature and a Masters in ESL Education. Michelle has taught at Creverse campuses in Gangneung, Songpa, and Mokdong and currently works as a CDI and April Trainer. Michelle never set out to be a teacher but fell in love with Korean culture and the excitement of being in the classroom. Michelle lives in Seoul with her partner and two cats, Cherry and Frost.