Why Staying Active Helps  

The first few weeks of term can feel like a whirlwind - new classes, new people, new everything. Building movement into your week is one of the easiest ways to stay grounded through it all. Regular exercise isn’t just about fitness; it helps boost your mood, ease stress, and keep your energy levels steady during busy days. It’s also a great way to meet people outside your course and add some structure to your routine. Whether you’re into gym sessions, group classes, or more social activities, staying active can make uni life feel a lot more balanced - and way more enjoyable. 

Common Barriers  

Not sporty? No problem. Short on time? We get it. You’re not alone - lots of students worry about fitting activity into their schedule or not knowing where to start. That’s why Queen’s Sport is designed to meet you where you’re at. 

Membership made easy: If you live in Queen’s accommodation, you already get free off-peak access to the gym, pool, and classes and student clubs. For everyone else, student memberships start from £25 per month, with 9-month (£203) and 12-month (£263) options if you want to commit longer term. All memberships include gym access, swimming, climbing, racquet sports, 75+ classes, student club access, and free parking. 

Active Campus 

Active Campus: A chilled, low-pressure way to get moving and meet people. These sessions are designed for all levels - from total beginners to those looking for something new. Coming up this month: 

• Yoga U Roadshow  - Mon 13 Oct, 1–1.45pm, Blue Sky Room (One Elmwood) 
  Mid-week reset with strength, flexibility, and mindfulness. 

• International GAA - Thu 9 Oct–4 Dec, 6–7pm, OTF PEC 
  Learn Gaelic football in a fun, beginner-friendly setting. 

• Campus Basketball - Thu 29 Sept–17 Nov, 6–7pm, OTF PEC 
  8-week social games programme for all abilities. 

• Halloween Dodgeball – Tue 28 Oct, 2–4pm, Minor Hall PEC 
  Fancy dress dodgeball tournament - join solo or in a team of six! 

Active Campus makes it easy to try something new, stay active, and meet people - all without committing long-term. 

Not sure where to start? Watch this short video to see how Active Campus makes it easy (and fun) to get moving at Queen’s.

Student Clubs 

Want to take things a step further? Joining a student sports club is one of the best ways to make friends, stay active and try something totally new. With over 57 clubs to choose from - including everything from rowing, Gaelic games and rugby to volleyball, climbing and ultimate frisbee - there’s something for everyone. 

Clubs are open to all abilities, so it doesn’t matter if you’ve played for years or have never even tried the sport before. Many offer social sessions as well as competitive opportunities, so you can decide how involved you want to be. 

And right now, there’s no better time to give it a go: you’ll have free access to club training at the PEC until 19 October, so you can try different sports and see what you enjoy before committing. It’s the perfect chance to get involved, find your people, and maybe even discover a new passion. 

Performance Sport  

For students combining sport and study, Queen’s Performance Sport provides support to help you develop your skills and balance your academic goals. 

Through our Elite Athlete Programme, athletes have access to strength and conditioning, physiotherapy, sports science services, performance lifestyle guidance, and flexible academic arrangements. Financial awards are also available to support your journey. 

Our Sports Academies -including Rugby, GAA, Rowing, Soccer, and Hockey—offer tailored coaching, performance services, and financial awards to help you get the most from your sporting potential while studying. 

The Power Of Sport

Getting Started  

Ready to get moving? Head over to the Queen’s Sport website to explore membership options, class timetables, and everything happening on Active Campus this semester. You can also pop into the PEC and chat with the team if you’re unsure where to start - they’ll help you find the best options for your schedule and goals. Whether you want to lift, stretch, swim, climb, or just de-stress after class, there’s something for everyone. 

Check out the programme, pick something that sparks your interest, and take that first step - your future self will thank you. 

However you choose to get active this semester, Queen’s Sport is here to help you feel good, meet new people, and make the most of your uni experience.