Staff Sport at The University of Manchester
Welcome to UoM Sport’s Staff Sport programme — your go-to space for getting active, connecting with colleagues, and supporting your wellbeing.
Here you’ll find everything you need to know about our Staff Sport programme and upcoming events you can get involved in. All sessions are fully equipped and led by qualified instructors or coaches, making it easy for you to take part—whatever your experience level. It’s a great way to stay active, meet colleagues from across the University, and maybe spark a few friendly rivalries along the way!
Active Manchester – Gym and Group Exercise
As part of our commitment to staff wellbeing, Active Manchester offers a year-round timetable of fitness classes and discounted gym memberships to help you stay active and maintain a healthy lifestyle.
From Pilates and Yoga to Zumba and strength training, there’s something for everyone. Most sessions take place during lunchtime or after work, making it easy to fit exercise around your schedule.
To see the full list of classes, buy a membership, and find out more, visit the Active Manchester page.
Sugden Sports Centre and Manchester Aquatics Centre
Staff can also take advantage of discounted memberships at the Sugden Sports Centre and the Manchester Aquatics Centre with a Corporate Membership.
Sporticipate
Sporticipate isn’t just for students—it’s open to staff too. The programme offers a wide variety of opportunities to get active, meet new people, and try something different in a friendly, supportive environment.
You can join:
- Weekly drop-in sessions — no commitment required
- Structured ‘learn-to’ courses — perfect for learning a new sport or skill
- One-off events — fun, inclusive sessions held throughout the year
Most activities are free or low cost, and all necessary equipment is provided. Many take place during lunchtime or after work at facilities on or near campus.
Sporticipate is aimed at beginners, but everyone is welcome.
To see what’s currently on offer and register for sessions, visit the Sporticipate page.
Campus Leagues
Our Campus Sport Leagues are open to all staff as well as students and offer a great opportunity to get active and social through friendly competition.
Leagues run from October to April, with a variety of sports available and plans to expand further. Whether you’re joining an existing team or forming a new one, it’s a fantastic way to stay fit and build connections across the University community.
Find out more and register your team on the Campus Sport Leagues page.
Purple Wave – 10th Anniversary Celebration
Whatever drives you, run with us.
This year marks the 10th anniversary of The Purple Wave, a UoM Sport initiative that celebrates community, wellbeing, and shared achievement through participation in the Great Manchester Run.
The Purple Wave isn’t about competition or high performance—it’s about taking part, having fun, and connecting with others through physical activity. Thousands of staff and students have joined over the years, creating an incredible display of unity across the city.
Participants are encouraged to wear the iconic Purple Wave T-shirt as a symbol of pride and togetherness. Fundraising opportunities and guidance are also available for those who wish to support a good cause.
Tickets will go on sale soon for the 10k — find out about Purple Wave.
Keep running with UoM Sport
Join one of our UoM running groups for friendly, lunchtime runs with colleagues and like-minded people. Shower and changing facilities are available across campus to make it easy to fit exercise into your day.
More Information
If you have any questions about Staff Sport or would like to get involved, please email sport@manchester.ac.uk.