From discounted sports memberships to great local eateries, explore how Portsmouth can help you build healthy habits that last.
We’ve all heard it before: eat well, stay active, look after yourself. But have you ever thought about why these habits matter, or how to make them part of your daily routine? Let’s look at what makes healthy living so important, and how you can make it work for you here in Portsmouth.
Why eating well and staying active matters for students
- Increased lifespan
- Improved skin quality
- Weight control
- Reduced depression, anxiety, stress, and worry
- Enhanced concentration and memory
- Better sleep quality
- Reduced chances of heart disease, strokes, certain cancers, and type 2 diabetes
When you’re studying, these benefits really start to show. Regular exercise and a balanced diet can help you stay focused in lectures, manage stress during busy times, and keep your energy levels steady throughout the day. Taking care of your physical health supports your studies too, helping you stay motivated and perform at your best. As you can see, eating well and staying active can bring lasting benefits for both your body and mind. Wherever you are on your fitness journey, whether you’re just getting started or already a seasoned pro, your time at the University of Portsmouth is the perfect opportunity to build strong, healthy habits. These habits will help you feel your best now and protect your long-term health, giving you the strength and balance to enjoy life well beyond your time at Portsmouth.
Sounds good, right? Here’s how Portsmouth can help you action a healthy lifestyle.
Get active with the University of Portsmouth
Staying active in Portsmouth couldn’t be easier. As a student, you can enjoy discounted memberships at the state-of-the-art Ravelin Sports Centre, with prices starting from just £17.99 a month. Plus, staff and students get reduced tickets to all of Pompey’s home League One games which is the perfect way to experience the city’s sporting spirit. Whether you want to join one of our 34 sports clubs, try a short course, or just stay moving in a way that works for you, there’s something here for everyone. Click on the images below to find out more.
Ravelin Sports Centre
Introducing our new sports centre for our students, staff, and the local community – featuring a swimming pool, climbing wall, ski simulator, squash courts, and more.
Sports Clubs
Find your tribe and try one of our 34 sports clubs. From archery to ultimate frisbee, there is something for everyone.
Mini fitness courses
Jump into something new with our short fitness courses, usually 6–8 weeks long. Past courses have included Latin dance and self-defence.
Sports Scholarship Scheme
Competing at a regional or international level? You could be eligible for our Sports Scholarship Scheme, offering £250–£3,000 to support your sporting journey. Around 20 students each year receive this scholarship. Open to all students no matter your course, year, or nationality.
Staying active around the city
Beyond the university, Portsmouth has plenty of ways to stay active. As a mostly flat seaside city, it’s perfect for getting around by bike. Our beaches and parks are ideal for going for walks, jogging, doing yoga, rollerblading, swimming, or even paddleboarding. It’s also one of the best places for students looking for active things to do in Portsmouth, with loads of local activities to get involved in, including:
Great South Run
Join thousands of runners on a lively 10-mile route along Portsmouth’s seafront and historic landmarks.
Two 18-hole golf courses
Enjoy the mature parkland of Great Salterns or take in the elevated views at Portsmouth Golf Course.
Heart of Portsmouth Boxing Academy
Train, learn, and get active with boxing sessions that build skill, fitness, and confidence.
Andrew Simpson Centre
Try a range of water sports from sailing and windsurfing to paddleboarding and kayaking.
Flip out
Your typical trampoline park with trampolines, foam pits, and slam dunk zones. Plus, late-night Saturday sessions for an active night out.
Indoor and outdoor skate parks
Skate, scoot, or ride BMX at Pitt St. Skatepark’s indoor ramps and foam pits, or hit the bowls and rails at Southsea Skatepark on the seafront.
We’ve talked about moving your body, now let’s talk about how to fuel it.
Healthy eating for students in Portsmouth
Turning healthy eating ideas into reality can feel a bit daunting. Between meal planning, finding recipes, and sticking to a student budget, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. That’s why we’re here to help make it simpler. From short nutrition courses to blogs with healthy recipes and meal-planning tips, you’ll find plenty of support to turn your healthy eating ideas into everyday habits during your time in Portsmouth.
To help you along the way, our annual Feel Good Fest is a great chance to try new foods, explore healthy options, and get inspired. And if you ever need a bit of extra support, our Student Wellbeing Team is always here to help with any challenges around healthy eating or nutrition.
Top tips for healthy eating at university
- Use AI tools to quickly create weekly food plans.
- Keep your meal plan in your phone on an app or a spreadsheet so it's always to hand.
- Dedicate a few hours one day a week to meal prep for the week.
- Keep snacks like fruit or nuts on hand for busy study days.
- Watch healthy recipe TikToks for inspiration.
- Cook healthy meals with friends to make it more fun (and to share the washing up).
Healthy eating around the city
It’s not always easy to eat well when you’re busy, out with friends or still finding your routine as a student. Knowing a few places that serve healthy options can make it easier to stay on track while still enjoying the social side of uni life. Portsmouth has plenty of cafés and restaurants that make eating well simple, tasty and affordable. Here are a few to check out.
Farm Kitchen
Mediterranean-style meals, fresh coffee and a friendly atmosphere make this café a student favourite.
Tortilla
Mexican-style burritos, tacos and bowls made to order with plenty of flavour and customisable options.
Viet Quan
Vietnamese street food with light, flavourful bowls and plenty of healthy choices.
Positive eats
Fresh, colourful bowls and smoothies. Perfect for a quick and healthy pick-me-up.
Wagamama
A go-to for flavourful Asian dishes that feel both fresh and filling.
Fuegos Street
Street-food inspired tacos, burgers and bowls. Fresh flavours made easy.