Exercishuset, Gothenburg, Sport and event building near Heden, Sweden

Exercishuset is a gymnastics and exercise hall in the northeast corner of Heden, at Parkgatan, in Gothenburg. The building was designed by architect Frans Jacob Heilborn and completed on 8 December 1867. It was funded by merchant Julius Lindström, who donated it to the city through a deed of gift signed on 29 December 1865.

Built in 1867 through the donation of merchant Julius Lindström and designed by architect Frans Jacob Heilborn, the building was originally intended for school children and military training. It has shaped the city's athletic life for more than 150 years.

The building takes its name from the adjacent exercisheden, the military drill field, and is considered Gothenburg's first organized effort in sport and physical education. Originally the volunteer sharpshooter corps used the premises most; later it served school gymnastics and clubs. Today it hosts table tennis, dance courses and historical fencing.

The building is easily accessible by public transportation and sits in a central location near Heden. Visitors should check ahead or arrange booking through local sports administration, as it functions as an active sports center and not all areas are open to drop-in visitors.

After World War I, the entire structure was converted into emergency housing during a severe housing shortage, with wooden walls dividing the space into small single-room apartments. This unexpected transformation shows how the building adapted to meet urgent city needs beyond its original purpose.