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
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.
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Author: Undercliff Creative
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.
UT Students work out at the University of Tartu sports hall
University of Tartu students have the opportunity to stay active at the University of Tartu Academic Sports Club. Students have access to the gym and the athletics hall, as well as recreational training and ball game sessions. This means everyone can find a way to stay active, spend time with fellow students and enjoy being part of the university community during their studies.
A semester pass at the University of Tartu Academic Sports Club costs just €50 for University of Tartu students. More information about the available sports and training opportunities can be found on theUniversity of Tartu Academic Sports Club website.
Community run club TÜ Sörk
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.
Participation is free for everyone. The group runs at a relaxed pace for 30–35 minutes. The community run is not focused on competition results.
Stay informed about upcoming group runs – follow the Facebook page of the University of Tartu Academic Sports Club.
University of Tartu stays active with Tartu Maraton
The University of Tartu and Tartu Maraton have signed a cooperation agreement to offer the university community more opportunities to stay active and participate in sports events as a group. The series includes the ski marathon, the road cycling race and the mountain bike marathon, as well as running marathons with walking divisions. There are options for both beginners and more experienced athletes.
The University of Tartu discount is available: read more from university website.
The University of Tartu events calendar lists Tartu Maraton events as well as group training sessions to help participants prepare for them.
Student Summer and Winter Games, Ylipall
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.
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.
All University of Tartu students are welcome to join the shared student fan section at the games of the university basketball team, Tartu Ülikool Maks & Moorits, where the atmosphere is created with drums, flags, face paint and enthusiastic support.
Throughout the season, joint fan trips are also organised to other cities in Estonia, with students travelling by bus to support the team. In addition to the excitement of the games, the student fan section is a great opportunity to meet fellow students and be part of an active university community.
A student ticket to Tartu Ülikool Maks & Moorits home games costs just €5. Read more on the UT Sports Board website.
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..
Regular physical activity is one of the simplest ways to support both physical and mental health. Even 30 minutes of movement can noticeably improve your mood and boost your energy. Find more recommendations on the The Competence Centre for Physical Activity website.
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.
Maintaining wellbeing and balance does not necessarily require major changes or grand gestures. More often, it is the small, intentional moments of restoration that make the biggest difference.
Our summer wellbeing bingo includes 16 simple activities that take very little time but can bring more joy, balance and a greater sense of wellbeing to your day.
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Author: ChatGPT ja Kristina Tammes
The City of Tartu, University of Tartu and Tartu Urban Cyclists Society have selected the safest and most convenient cycling route between the Maarjamõisa study buildings, Vanemuise 46 and the Delta study building. The route also passes the University of Tartu Library.
