UC+Ativa is back!

While the period following the summer holidays marks a return to routine, it also provides an opportunity to reorganise schedules and introduce new activities into daily life. Why not try a new sport? Desporto UC offers a variety of activities to the University of Coimbra (UC) community, including badminton, baseball, billiards, walking and running, canoeing, jiu-jitsu, functional training, table tennis, yoga, and new this year, padel and volleyball.

“Padel is a fascinating sport with a strong recreational element that attracts many people,” says the sport’s coach, Miguel Branco. “It’s similar to tennis, but easier to play. It takes place within an enclosed court with glass and fencing, which keeps the ball constantly in play, adding excitement and competitiveness.”

As UC does not yet have its own padel court, sessions will take place at Arena Coimbra – Padel & Squash. Miguel Branco recommends padel for everyone: 'It's suitable for all ages, and there is even adapted padel for people with motor difficulties.'

As it is a physical activity, Branco adds that "simply playing Padel is highly beneficial", and highlights other advantages: 'It develops coordination, endurance, speed and sometimes complex motor skills. Padel also has significant social and cognitive benefits.”

UC+Ativa activities are held annually in line with the academic calendar. Led by qualified professionals, they aim to promote an active and healthy lifestyle among the university community.

Last year, the programme attracted around 650 participants across all activities and disciplines.

To participate, you must register via the Desporto UC platform by logging in and selecting activities under the 'Activities' menu.