How To Budget At Uni
Many claim that university is the best time of your life, but in reality there’s a lot more to it than going out every night and staying in bed until the early hours of the afternoon.
In fact, uni can be a stressful time for many. From coping with exam stress to maintaining a healthy work-life balance - and budgeting only adds to the mix…
According to one survey, 74% of students revealed they wish they’d had better financial education before going to uni, which just goes to show, if you’re unsure on how to manage your money, you’re not alone.
Knowing how to budget at uni isn’t exactly the most glamorous subject, but it’s definitely something every student should be clued up on. Besides, nobody wants to be living off Pot Noodles, right?
So, if you want to get to grips with student budgeting, you’re in the right place.
WHY IS BUDGETING IMPORTANT?
We know how tempting it is to blow your student loan the second it hits your bank (trust us, we’ve been there, done that!), but it’s always a good idea to set aside some of your loan for a rainy day or unexpected costs. Yep, that goes for those mammoth textbooks you read for a semester and then never again!
You’ll also need to budget for your accommodation costs, as well as any other living expenses, such as food.
The key to budgeting at university is planning, forward-thinking and most importantly, making it last. Student loans aren’t a game of how fast you can spend them!
HOW TO BUDGET AT UNI
1. CALCULATE YOUR INCOME
First things first, you need to establish exactly how much money you’ve got coming in. This will allow you to gauge how much you have to spend - although, don’t forget you don’t need to spend every last penny just because it’s there.
Think carefully about every possible source of income. This could include your maintenance loan, additional grants, money from family, savings and anything you earn from a part-time job.
Top Tip: Your maintenance loan will arrive in three big chunks throughout the academic year, so aim to budget across that period.
2. ESTIMATE YOUR OUTGOINGS
Now that you’ve calculated your income, it’s time to figure out where all your money is going. This is the true act of adulting, girls.
One way to do this is to look back at your bank statement and add up all your previous purchases. Alternatively, create a spreadsheet and work out roughly how much you might spend on things like rent, food shopping, bills, transport and study materials. This will help you calculate how much disposable income you have left over each month to spend on the ‘non-essentials’, such as nights out, a gym membership and clothes.
3. ESTABLISH A WEEKLY BUDGET
Once you’ve worked out all your expenses, it’s a good idea to break it down into a weekly budget. Brace yourselves, this is where it starts to get real.
The simplest and most effective way to do this is to calculate your total income for a term/semester at university. Subtract your essential expenses for the same period from this total and then divide the number you’re left with by the number of weeks in a term.
It’s far better to budget your money per week rather than per month, as you don’t want to risk going overboard at the start of the month only to have nothing left by the end of it.
4. SHOP SMART
One of the best things about being a student is that you get exclusive access to a whole world of discounts. From money off your favourite clothing brands to discounts on tech, there are plenty of savings to be made as a student.
StudentBeans and Unidays are both free to sign up to and offer discounts on over 1,000 brands worldwide - that includes us too. Find out more here.
If you’re a student in the UK, you can also buy the 16-25 Railcard to save a third on rail fares.
As well as that, we recommend shopping at budget supermarkets, like ALDI and LIDL, to get more bang for your buck. It’s all about shopping smart, ladies!
5. KEEP TRACK OF YOUR SPENDING
When you’re a student, it can be easy to get ahead of yourself and splash the cash unnecessarily.
Before you buy something on impulse, ask yourself “Do I really need this?” Write it down on a wishlist and come back to it a week later. If by then you still want it, at least you’ve given yourself time to really think about it. If you don’t, it just goes to show you never really needed it in the first place and behold… more money saved!
If you find you are struggling to make ends meet, it may be worth taking on a part-time job to boost your income - although, try not to let it get in the way of your studies. If this isn’t suitable, most universities offer financial help, so it may be worth getting in touch with an advisor.
Student budgeting doesn’t have to be a minefield. With our top tips, you can make the most of student life without putting your finances at jeopardy.
Best of luck!
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Beginners guide to starting a running routine this year
Whether you're looking for a new fitness challenge, gearing up for a 10k run, or simply aiming to get in shape - your running journey starts here!
Running is one of the most accessible ways to get fit, relieve stress, and boost mental health but it can also be intimidating if you’re just starting out. We’ve put together a simple guide to help you get moving safely and confidently this year.
1. Set Realistic Goals
Starting with a goal can make all the difference. Begin with something achievable, like running a specific distance or time, or simply going for three short runs a week. Avoid setting high expectations right away; this will help you stay motivated without the pressure.
2. Start Slowly
A common mistake beginners make is diving in too fast. Start with a mix of walking and running, such as the “run-walk” method. Try alternating a few minutes of running with a minute of walking, gradually increasing the running intervals each week.
3. Invest in Essential Gear
A quality pair of running shoes that matches your foot type and supports your stride can greatly reduce injury risk and enhance comfort. Moisture-wicking clothing will keep you dry, especially if you're running in various weather conditions. Adding a reliable set of headphones for music and a running vest can boost motivation and keep essentials within reach on your runs.
4. Warm Up and Cool Down
Warming up prepares your muscles for the workout and can improve your performance. Start with a 5-minute brisk walk or dynamic stretches. After running, spend a few minutes cooling down with gentle stretching to help prevent stiffness and soreness.
5. Track Your Progress
Using a journal, app, or smartwatch to track your runs helps you see progress over time and keeps you motivated. Start with a baseline run, and gradually push your limits by small increments each week. Seeing improvements, no matter how small, can give you a huge confidence boost.
6. Listen to Your Body
It’s normal to feel some discomfort as you start running, but pain is a red flag. If you feel sharp or persistent pain, take a rest day and allow yourself to recover. Proper rest is crucial for building endurance and strength over time.
7. Stay Consistent
Consistency is key in building a running routine. Aim for small, steady improvements each week rather than big jumps. Finding a running buddy, joining a local park run, or having an upbeat playlist can help you stay motivated on those days when getting out the door feels tough.
8. Celebrate Milestones
Whether it’s your first mile or first week without skipping a session, take time to celebrate! Acknowledging your achievements, no matter how small, can help keep you excited about your progress.
Starting a running routine can be a life-changing decision that builds not just physical fitness but also mental resilience. So, lace up, stay positive, and enjoy the journey—your goals are just a run away!
Shop AYBL for the latest activewear to keep you motivated in achieving your fitness goals this year!
Top Activewear pieces to achieve your goals this year
It’s the new year and you’re ready to crush your gym goals and reach new PB’s, which means it’s time to invest in some new activewear pieces and you're in luck! We've got an endless supply of activewear pieces to make you look good and feel good when crushing the gym. This is the year you to be the best version of yourself so let's get it!
Adapt
Our newest collection has just launched and is ready and waiting for you to crush your goals! Adapt will have you looking fierce, feeling unstoppable in the gym. Made from a lightweight, seamless, silky-soft fabric, Adapt moves with you, offering the perfect stretch to sculpt, flatter, and adapt to your shape, boosting your confidence in every workout. Built to withstand your toughest routines, this premium fabric combines durability with luxurious comfort.
The best part about this collection is that it offers versatility with the Sports Bra which can be worn in 4 different ways so you can style it however you wish!
Launched in 6 colours: Black, Slate, Green, Brown, Pink and Iris Blue and available in the below styles:
- Seamless Sports bra (worn 4 ways)
- Seamless Zip Jacket
- Seamless Crop top
- Seamless Shorts
- Seamless Leggings
So flex your style, adapt to your strength, and crush your goals with our latest Adapt collection. Shop here.
Empower
The Empower Seamless Collection is a best-seller, known for its ultra-soft fabrics and intricate contouring, boosting confidence during workouts. With the broadest colour range, it's the go-to for sculpting support during weight and strength training.
Available in many styles such as Leggings, Shorts, Sports Bra, Crop top, Long Sleeve crop top and available in 26 colours you’ll be spoilt for choice!
So push your limits and look your best in our Empower Collection. Shop here.
Balance V3
Balance V3 is another one of our bestsellers and not to mention - a workout wardrobe essential! It supports you from daily workouts to PB achievements. With contour detailing, flattering v neckline shaping, and bold colours, it's a collection worth exploring.
Available in Shorts, Leggings, Sports Bra, Strappy Sports Bra, Zip Jacket & Crop Top and in 26 different colours - this collection is perfected for your performance to help smash your goals. Shop Balance V3 here.
Essential Bras
These are a must-have for any workout wardrobe, and we've got a range of flattering styles and colours to suit any leggings or shorts. Whether you prefer a classic racerback or something with a little more support, our essential bras are perfect for an effortless range of movements.
Shop Essential Bras here
So there you have it, outfits with your name on - ready for you to crush your goals this year! Remember, the right activewear not only enhances your performance but also motivates you to show up and give your best every day. If you're looking for even more collections or accessories to style with, head over to our website.
AYBL Now Available in JD Sports
WE’VE GOT BIG NEWS! 👀
We’re thrilled to announce that AYBL is now available in JD Sports stores across the UK, Scotland & Ireland!
You can now shop AYBL in real life at selected JD stores across the UK, Scotland, and Ireland. Discover our latest releases alongside your favourite best-sellers, all designed to fit your active lifestyle. Here’s everything you need to know about our in-store collections:
What are some of the store locations?
What items can you shop in-store?
Empower Collection
The Empower Seamless Collection is a best-seller, known for its ultra-soft fabrics and intricate contouring, boosting confidence during workouts. With the broadest colour range, it's the go-to for sculpting support during weight and strength training.
Available in selected styles:
- Sports bra
- Full Zip Jacket
- Leggings
- Shorts
Adapt Collection
Get your hands on our newest collection launched this month! Adapt will have you looking fierce, feeling unstoppable, and help you smash your gym goals. Made from a lightweight, seamless, silky-soft fabric, Adapt moves with you, offering the perfect stretch to sculpt, flatter, and adapt to your shape, boosting your confidence in every workout. Built to withstand your toughest routines, this premium fabric combines durability with luxurious comfort.
Available in selected styles:
- Sports Bra
- Zip Jacket
- Leggings
Varsity Collection
Varsity, our trendiest loungewear collection yet. With a cool and playful edge, each piece is designed for comfort and effortless style. Varsity is the ultimate upgrade to your off-duty essentials. Made to wear as a pump cover or as a lounging set, it's everyone's go-to fit.
Available in selected styles:
- Hoodie
- Joggers
- T-Shirt
Not only have we launched in-store, but you can also shop AYBL online at JD Sports! Whether you prefer the ease of browsing from home or a fun shopping trip with the girls, JD is here to enhance your shopping experience with us like never before!
One collection that deserves your attention is the Sports Club Collection. Made for ultimate comfort, it features soft fleece-lined sweat fabric and an oversized fit, making it perfect to layer over your activewear for the gym or wear as a cozy lounging set. It’s the go-to fit everyone’s loving!
Available in selected styles:
- Hoodie
- Joggers
- T-Shirt
This is just the beginning—we can’t wait to see you shop AYBL IRL! Visit your nearest JD store to explore our AYBL fits’, and don’t forget to share your experience on socials by tagging us. See you there! Shop the full range of AYBL online at JD or visit us in-store to discover your favourites today!