Sport at the University of Birmingham

University of Birmingham Hockey scholars at the Commenwealth Games

History makers

In 1946, the University of Birmingham made history as the first University to offer undergraduate courses in physical education. Fast-forward to the modern day, and the foundations laid by Sir Raymond Priestley, Albert Davis (‘Dave’) Munrow and Bill Slater have built a truly international sporting dynasty.

Sport & Fitness is for all at Birmingham – home to international sporting scholars and world-class fitness facilities. From the Commonwealth Games Legacy to Campus League tables, your sporting journey starts now…

Swimming at the University of Birmingham Sports Centre

Welcome to Sport & Fitness

Opened on our Edgbaston campus in 2017, Sport and Fitness is a world-class facility with two gyms, 50m swimming pool, three studios, six squash courts, climbing wall and 200sm of arena space. 2023 also saw a gym refurbishment of the floor and 200-station machines.

The University has two international standard hockey pitches, flexible 3G pitches which can be used for 5-a-side and 11-a-side football, as well as netball and tennis courts, and a 400m athletics track at Edgbaston Park Road.

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Built in 2017, our athletics track has hosted a variety of world-class competitions including the European 10,000m Cup. The athletics track has a full 400-metre running track and can facilitate all field events including jumps and throws.

Tiverton Gym based in the heart of nearby Selly Oak also offers a student-only multi-functional gym option.

The university also opened the Raymond Priestley Centre in 1981 on the shores of Coniston Water in the Lake District, offering students, staff and community alike to explore outdoor activities and learning in the area.

Netball game at University of Birmingham Sports Centre
Outdoor sports pitches and facilities drone shot
Woman in a yoga class at the University of Birmingham Sports Centre

Get a Sport & Fitness Membership – Flexible pricing for peak, off peak and specific gym, pool and class access.

Campus League - Represent your course, department or society in competitive and social leagues across the university.

Fitness Classes – Choose from 150 classes per week ranging from dance, to yoga, to body combat, or join our Level Up Workshops led by our in-house experts.

Facility Hire - Book indoor and outdoor courts and pitches online for your choice of sport.

University of Birmingham American Football player

Sports Clubs

Become a Birmingham Lion and choose from 62 sports clubs offering something for all fitness and ability levels.

Compete against other Universities nationally in the BUCS leagues – or try a new sport. Wednesday fixtures, socials and events are all a part of Birmingham student life.

Discover a sport

Women's field hockey team playing at night at University of Birmingham

Sports Scholarships

 Our sector-leading programmes aim to provide talented student-athletes with the relevant support required for success in their sport thanks to a team of expert practitioners, specialist support services, state-of-the-art facilities and an athlete-centred approach.

Applications are open for the 2023/24 academic year.

Apply here

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