Christmas is fast approaching - and if you’re looking to lose a few pounds ahead of the festive period or just want to feel fitter this winter, there are various options open to you across south London.

Getting in shape doesn't have to cost a fortune - in fact, many of the activities are free, including these 11.

Take karate classes in Greenwich

Whether it’s for you or your kids, there’s no better time to try out a new sport. Senshi Karate lets newcomers in for free, so you can try your hand at something new without having to fork out on joining fees.

Go for a parkrun in Kingston

Parkrun organises weekly 5ks around the country for runners of all fitness levels.

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Whether you’re the competitive type or just need a group of people to inspire you to get fit, you can sign up for free and test your limits.

Hit the streets of Merton

If you find it a constant struggle to get your kids to put down their tech and get involved in some exercise, Rosie Chesson Dance might just have the answer.

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Offering a mixture of hip hop, house and breakdancing classes, here, you can sign your young ones up to their first authentic street dance class for free.

Get army fit in Bromley

No-one knows more about fitness than the British Army - and if you’re serious about getting fit this winter, they’ll be happy to help. British Military Fitness offers an alternative to traditional group fitness classes - meaning you can sign up for a free class and find what works for you regardless of your fitness level.

Workout in-store in Richmond

Whether you want to get more centred with a yoga class or fancy trying out some high-intensity training, you can get fit and shop at the same time! Sweaty Betty’s in-store workouts are free - and you can access them online, too.

Age is just a number in Wandsworth

Meetup is designed to bring people from all walks of life together - and with groups meeting throughout London, there’s something for everyone. The weekly over-60s badminton classes at Battersea Sports Centre are free - so you can get fit and meet new people in the process.

Get your hands dirty in Lewisham

Set up with an aim to steer people away from the generic gym experience, GoodGym is designed to keep groups active through completing manual labour for local communities. With GoodGym operating in more than 20 locations throughout London, you can do a good deed and get fit while you’re at it.

Try pre-and postnatal Pilates in Richmond

Align Pilates is for new or expectant mums who are looking to get in shape. From preparing mums-to-be for the birthing process to helping to ease back pain post-birth, a free taster session will give you a glimpse into the art of Pilates.

Embrace the outdoors in Croydon

There are more than 40 Fusion centres across the UK, so you’ll have no problem finding an outdoor fitness class in the capital. If you’re not sure which activity you fancy, sign up for a free pass for a taster.

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Be fit at 50 in Greenwich

With centres situated around London, Active Health hosts a variety of free fitness classes for over-50s. From Tai Chi to flexible sit down exercises, there’s an activity for everyone to get involved in later in life.

Dance the day away with Zumba in Wandsworth

If you consider exercise a chore, the trick is to find an activity you love. Whether it’s Zumba or body combat, easyGym has a number of classes available - and you can get an induction for free!

Information is from the fitness experts at Rugbystore.

To get involved visit britmilfit.com.

Do you know of any free fitness classes or activities in the south London area? Leave your comments below and let us know.