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Physical activity and wellbeing programme “Active University of Tartu”
Physical activity that connects. Wellbeing that lasts. “Active University of Tartu” is a year-round physical activity and wellbeing programme. We invite the entire university community to find their path towards a more active, healthier and more balanced lifestyle. #ActiveUT
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Tartu Ülikooli kantsler Kstina Noormets. Author: Lauri Saluveer
We want physical activity to be a natural part of everyday life at the University of Tartu – in a way that suits each person’s level, pace and rhythm of life. What matters is not one’s sporting background, but the willingness to find a way to participate: to be active on their own, to move together with others, or to support their peers. This is how we shape a university environment where we care about our own and each other’s wellbeing, look out for one another, and move forward visibly and with joy.
Kstina Noormets, University of Tartu Director of Administration, sports enthusiast
The physical activity and wellbeing programme aims to
support the physical and mental wellbeing of the university community,
increase awareness of the benefits of an active lifestyle,
strengthen the sense of unity within the university,
shape the University of Tartu into an institution that values health and wellbeing.
We do not expect anyone to have a sporting background – what matters is the joy of movement and the willingness to take part. To support this, we have planned a variety of events for participants of all levels and paces, promoting both mental and physical health. Whether your goal is to be more active, reduce stress, meet new people, or take to the course together in university colours – #ActiveUT offers the opportunity.
Not everyone needs to take to the course themselves. We also invite the university community to engage with sports competitions and other sporting events in different ways – by cheering on our participants, supporting the university’s representatives, and sharing the joy of movement.
One way to discover the joy of movement is through cycling. The front baskets of 500 electric bicycles of Tartu’s bike share system carry the programme’s message “Rohkem liikumist. Suurem heaolu. Leia oma liikumisrõõm” (“More movement. Greater wellbeing. Discover your joy of movement”).
We invite all members of the university community, as well as residents and visitors to Tartu, to cycle more this summer and explore the city.
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Tartu’s electric bicycle. Author: Erakogu
Stay up to date with the events and news of the physical activity and wellbeing programme “Active University of Tartu”:
Every year, the lively University of Tartu Spring Run takes place. The five-kilometre course runs along the river Emajõgi to the Town Hall Square and back. Participants can cover the distance at their own pace by running or walking. The route passes many popular spots and sights in Tartu, so the Spring Run offers not only the joy of movement but also plenty of added value.
We also invite other universities and sports enthusiasts to join us, as the Spring Run will not only determine the overall standings, but also the fastest students and the fastest university.
TÜ Sörk is a free running club of the University of Tartu Academic Sports Club, inviting the University of Tartu community and all others to a friendly, non-competitive jog once a week in the city of Tartu. The group runs at a relaxed pace for 30–35 minutes. The community run is not focused on competition results. Participation is free for everyone.
The 2026 season of TÜ Sörk opens in March.
Stay informed about upcoming group runs – follow the Facebook page of the University of Tartu Academic Sports Club.
Student Summer and Winter Games, Ylipall
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Author: Ylisport
The Student Summer and Winter Games and Ylipall are sporting events within our physical activity and wellbeing programme that unite the community, bringing students, staff and alumni from various universities together to move, support one another and celebrate university life.
These events offer opportunities to participate both in teams and as spectators, and they are suitable for people of all levels and experience. What matters is not the result, but taking part together, enjoying physical activity and strengthening the sense of unity at the university.
The University of Tartu Sports Board promotes student sport and physical activity, and organises entertainment and sporting events, offering students and staff an active and enjoyable break from everyday routines.
The University of Tartu Academic Sports Club provides a wide range of training opportunities and access to the university’s sports facilities, supporting regular exercise, recreational sport and an active lifestyle alongside daily life.
Below, you will find practical ideas and inspiration for bringing physical activity into your day – whether through short activity breaks, evidence‑based recommendations or tips that support mental wellbeing. Have a look and find the approach that suits you best for supporting your physical activity and wellbeing.
In spring 2021, our Student Union invited the entire university community to help create 1–3‑minute activity breaks, to make physical activity a natural part of teaching and research at the University of Tartu. An activity break could consist of several exercises but needed to be suitable for a lecture, seminar, laboratory session – or even for a conference or study time at home. In collaboration with our Move Lab, the best breaks were selected and divided into three categories: stretches and calmer exercises; mind and body coordination; and dances, rhythm and challenges. You can find the videos of the activity breaks on the Student Union’s YouTube channel.
The greatest strength of our university lies in its smart and educated people. That is why we prioritise engaging our members in achieving common goals, providing our staff with opportunities to realise their full potential, and thoughtfully developing our infrastructure.
