Tasks & Goals
Each semester, the General University Sport of Heidelberg University offers students and other university members an extensive and varied sports programme. In addition to a broad-based range of recreational sporting activities, we also provide training courses with a focus on improving the student-athletes’ performance in competitions. Numerous interesting excursions and other activities complement our portfolio. Heidelberg University is a member of the adh (German University Sports Federation). As a member of the DOSB (German Olympic Sports Confederation), this umbrella organisation of all the university sport institutions in Germany represents the interests of more than 2 million university and college members on a national level, and through its association with the International University Sports Federation (FISU), on an international level too. This affiliation gives promising student-athletes the opportunity to take part in both national and international competitions organised by the adh. The athletes from Heidelberg University, Pädagogische Hochschule Heidelberg and SRH Heidelberg participate as a single team.
The General University Sport of Heidelberg University aims at providing all university members with the opportunity to try out new types and forms of sport, to enhance existing skills and to promote health, fitness and well-being by offering a counterbalance to the daily routine of studying and working. Its focus lies on enabling its users to maintain and improve their physical condition, to find recreation, relaxation and diversion in workouts and physical exercises, and to enjoy sport with like-minded people. Essentially, our sports programme comprises seven different types of events:
General sports and training courses
Through a wide variety of sports activities these courses allow you to be physically active and improve your fitness in a pleasant environment under professional guidance. The principal goal is to improve physical fitness and coordination skills.
Training courses for specific disciplines
Those interested in particular types of sport can acquire basic skills and knowledge in these disciplines or further develop and expand their existing competencies. Expert trainers support and provide guidance to participants.
Specialised courses for health and well-being
These courses are promoted by our health insurance partner Techniker Krankenkasse and are intended for people who pursue sport as a preventive and counterbalancing measure.
Independent play (major sports games)
We provide the setup for independent play, i.e. the gym and equipment. Players organise themselves into teams, get in touch with the caretakers to obtain the equipment, and tidy up after playing. Players provide their own balls and rackets.
Excursions
Excursions allow you to get to know and enjoy types and forms of sport through a compact course. Usually, our programmes include skiing trips, sailing cruises and rowing or kayaking tours. Each semester the General University Sport offers a new set of courses.
Competitive team training
Training courses with expert coaching allow athletes preparing for competitions to maintain and enhance their performance with the goal of participating in the German University Championships.
Get-togethers
Usually self-organised, these regular meet-ups are for people who want to enjoy sport in a group of like-minded people. There are also offers outside of our programme – see the notices on the University Sport info boards in the foyers of the buildings INF 700 and 720.