Welcome to the Sports Centre at the University of Essex

The University has a five-year vision for sport as defined in its Sports Strategy, 2009-2013 to increase investment in facilities, encourage greater participation, improve performance and raise the profile of sport across the University. Whether you like racquet sports, football or rugby or perhaps aerobics, free weights or climbing, there is an activity – indoors or outside - to suit you. 

Having invested some £1.4 million in 2010, we are now home to one of the most advanced sports facilities in Essex.

Our showpiece Evolve gym which opened in July 2010, features over 130 stations, and offers state-of-the-art fitness technology in light, spacious air-conditioned comfort. In July 2012, Evolve Southend opened at the university square residencies to enable students at the Southend campus to enjoy the same high standard of equipment and service.

Our stunning fitness studios offer sprung wooden floors and air conditioning giving the best of environments for a vast range of classes from aerobics to yoga.

To see a short VR tour of some of the facilities available, please visit the University's virtual tours library.

Memberships for all

Students, University staff and local residents alike can benefit from great value membership of the extensive sport, health and fitness facilities on offer at the University of Essex Sports Centre.

• 2012/13 Memberships Whether you're a new or returning student, you can purchase your annual membership by making a one off payment on-line via the webshop or come and visit Reception. 

Reduced annual memberships for students

From 2 January 2013, the annual membership price for students will be reduced.

 Please refer to the membership page for more details.

Online bookings for Gold Passport to Sport members

We are now phasing in our new online bookings software - Connect 3.  Gold members are now able to make court bookings online.  More activities will be added and silver and bronze members will also have access to this service soon. More details can be found on the online bookings page along with guidance notes on using the software.

Festive season opening hours

Please refer to our opening times to check when we are open over the festive season.