Sports and fitness
Carlisle is very much a sporting city. From fanatical Carlisle United fans to competitive five-a-side and Sunday leagues and triathlons – there is a sport for everyone.
Our fantastic sports hall and gym facilities at the Fusehill Street campus are available to all university students and staff, with a range of fitness classes.
The Students' Union has clubs across our Carlisle and Lancaster campuses, such as outdoor pursuits, men's hockey team and basketball. Further detail can be found on the Students' Union website.
In addition to The Sands Centre sports centre and The Pools swimming baths, we are located close to many professional clubs, including Carlisle United FC and Carlisle Rugby Club.
Darren Glynn, outgoing University of Cumbria Carlisle Football Manager, says an “awful lot” of his best experiences at uni relate to his involvement with football.
“Whether it be the fantastic friends I have, friends that are sure to be friends for life, or whether it’s the fantastic socials and the bus journeys.
“I was in two minds whether to join a club or society at first as I was cautious about the workload and did not want it jeopardising my degree. In fact it made my degree that much easier.
“I played for the team for three years, managing the team to their first league title in my final year.
“I absolutely loved it! I cannot recommend joining the football team more. The lads who are taking over from me area a great set of lads and are highly talented footballers as well, with one being a semi-professional with Workington Reds. They will make you feel part of the team from the off and make you feel very welcome, something you need as you start university life.”
Also based in Carlisle is women’s netball, men’s basketball and opportunities in Gaelic Football.
The Students’ Union run all the sports teams and encourage people to start new ones so if you want to continue with your favourite sport they will set up your synchronised swimming or polo club.
“People are very welcome to set up new clubs at the university. For example last year social football was set up at Lancaster for those people who were not involved in the team. They trained together once a week and played friendlies,” said Liam Walker, the union’s representation sabbatical.
You will also find opportunities around Carlisle to indulge in other sports.
For those looking to keep fit there are a great selection of gyms. The Fusehill campus gym offers budget fitness from just £40 per year. Bannatynes and DW Sports offer a little more luxury but reflected in their prices.
One of the best offers for student fitness is Carlisle Leisure’s Ultimate Card. The card allows students to use its gyms at the Sands Centre, pools and other sporting facilities for just £16 per month. For those looking to compete in fitness Carlisle has its own triathlon club which some students are currently involved in.
If rackets are more your scene the city offers students the chance to play squash at the Cumbria’s most successful squash club. Badminton is on offer at a couple of clubs based at the Sands Centre or Richard Rose Central Academy. Students can also play tennis at Eden Lawn Tennis Club where student membership is £36.
Carlisle also boasts a successful rugby and cricket club. There are several golf courses which offer student memberships or the Swifts offer people the opportunity to play one off.
Athletes should head for the Border Harriers who compete in several national and regional teams.
So whatever your sporting preference there is something for you in Carlisle.
Credit
Article by
BA (Hons) Journalism student Jonathan Irving