Campus life is notorious for bad habits and unhealthy patterns. Chloe Sommer, sophomore and environmental studies major, says regular exercise can improve health beyond fitness. As a rock climber and avid outdoorswoman, she uses the CU Rec Center to exercise when the weather is bad during the winter.
“The climbing gym in particular has more walls than many other university gyms, which keeps me interested, engaged and coming back,” Sommer said.
She finds that regular exercise improves her mental health by encouraging her to eat better and become more social by finding friends to work out with. The natural endorphin rush that accompanies exercise helps, too.
The recently remodeled CU student Recreation Center offers students the opportunity to participate in programs according to personal interests. Students can use exercise machines and weightlifting rooms, and they can choose from a long list of health and fitness programs. Guided classes help students improve their skills. Intramural teams connect students with mutual interests and give them structure to play competitively. An outdoors program encourages students to take advantage of Colorado's natural wonders. The wellness center offers free nutrition classes, a massage studio and a trainer’s office.
Visit the Wellness Suite
"The outdoor program is among the least used," said Annie Mulvaney, Rec Center marketing director. In the past, they have tried to encourage participation by hosting social media contests and giving away T-shirts. Still, many students remain unaware of these opportunities to engage with everything Colorado offers. The outdoor program offers trips for students looking for a weekend getaway. They realize that money can be tight for many students and work to to make these trips affordable. They also rent equipment, offer outdoor safety courses and risk management workshops, and host fun competitions. This effort was part of the Rec Center’s “Find Your Fit” campaign.
One of Mulvany’s favorite Rec-sponsored trips is the “Getaway Day” offered during spring break. It focuses on wellness and mindfulness through hiking, yoga and meditation. The trip helps students release stress that might have been building up during the past couple of weeks. For students staying in town and looking for something to do over break, this could be a great option.
“There really is something for everyone here,” Mulvany said. For students looking to become more involved, the Rec Center’s website is a great place to start. From there, they can see all the programs offered and pick one that best fits their interests and schedules.
