Oulu provides a wide range of sports and exercise facilities for residents of all ages. Various facilities are located both in the centre and in different parts of the city. They are easily accessible and always within easy reach.
The City of Oulu provides – children, young people, adults and the elderly – guided activities for residents in gyms, swimming pools, and facilities mainly from September to May.
Keep fit in the city centre
The Raksila sports park is located right next to the city centre. You can swim, go the gym, practise cross-country skiing and ice skating, and play various ball games there.
National swimming and ice skating championships as well as ice hockey, bandy (jääpallo), and Finnish baseball games are organised at the various stadiums in the area.
Swimming, cross-country skiing or jogging
Locals enjoy exercising at the swimming pools, various sports facilities, jogging tracks, and cross-country skiing trails.
Designated skateboard areas are popular among the young; the most popular is the skateboard park in Hovinsuo.
The city has over 20 public beaches on the sea, the River Oulujoki and lake fronts. You can also swim in the River Oulujoki in the winter. The ice swimming hole in Tuira is very popular among ice swimmers.
Cycling gets you everywhere
Oulu is known as a cyclist-friendly city with a great cycleway network – the most extensive in Finland. Oulu residents are avid cyclists, and some cycle throughout the year. Winter cycling in extreme temperatures is what makes you an Oulu resident. Roller skaters, Nordic walkers, and joggers also use the cycleways regularly.
Active sports clubs
There are about 250 active sports clubs offering a wide range of sports for people of all ages and skills, from beginners to top athletes. The clubs organise several sports and exercise events every year. The City of Oulu cooperates closely with the clubs.
