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Physical Wellness

Being active is one of the best ways to maintain good health. It can also have a positive impact on our general well-being and quality of life. Engaging in regular physical activity can offer benefits that go beyond keeping your body fit.

Benefits of Being Active

It boosts your mood.

Physical activity not only keeps your body healthy, it can also help improve your mental health and lift your mood. The "feel good sensation" you get after doing something physical is like a happy pill with no side effects! By consistently engaging in physical activity, you can reduce stress, anxiety, depression, and anger, which are common among college students.

It keeps you strong.

Without regular exercise, your body will start to lose strength, stamina, and functionality. It's like they say, "use it or lose it"! By exercising, you will build up your muscles, which will help you do more activities without getting tired as quickly. This is especially important for college students who need to stay focused and energized throughout the day.

It keeps you healthy.

Sitting or engaging in sedentary activities for long periods of time can increase your risk of heart disease and stroke. One study revealed that people who watch over four hours of TV a day have an 80% higher risk of death from cardiovascular disease. College students spend a lot of time sitting in classes or studying, so make an effort to find ways to stand up and move around more. 

It helps you live longer.

If you want to live a longer, healthier life, it's time to get moving! Studies show that being physically active and maintaining a healthy weight can add up to seven years to your life! And the best part is those extra years are typically healthier ones. Staying active can help prevent chronic illnesses and diseases that are often associated with aging, allowing you to maintain your quality of life and independence for longer as you grow older. 

Even more benefits...
  • Lower your blood pressure
  • Increase levels of good cholesterol
  • Improve blood flow and circulation
  • Help manage your weight
  • Prevent bone loss and reduce the risk of osteoporosis

All this can also potentially save you money on medical expenses, interventions, and medications in the future. So why not start incorporating more physical activity into your routine today? Your body (and your wallet) will thank you!

Outdoor Recreation

Explore the opportunities our campus offers to get outdoors and play!

Rice Creek Field Station

Rice Creek 

a field of clover with the Fallbrook lodge in the background

Fallbrook

  • Located off Thompson Road, less than a 5-minute drive from campus
  • Trail system connects with trails at Rice Creek
  • Guided Nature Walks are open to the public
  • Fallbrook trails printable map (PDF)
entrance of Breitbeck Park

Breitbeck Park

  • Located on Lake Street, on the shore of Lake Ontario
  • About a 5-minute drive from campus
  • Paved walking paths
  • Basketball court
  • Open spaces for frisbee or other sports 

Indoor Fitness

Take advantage of the indoor facilities our campus offers.

Cooper & Glimmerglass

Our Fitness Centers promote the wellness of our campus community through a variety of programs and services.

  • Free for students
  • Small membership fee for staff, faculty, and their families
  • Members able to use both facilities

Lee Hall Pool

A variety of aquatic programs are held at the Lee Hall Pool, including swim lessons and open swim.

  • Free for students
  • Small membership fee for staff, faculty, and their families
  • Locker rooms available
  • Available when classes are in session

Romney Field House

When our weather prevents you from being outside, Romney Field House is available for indoor walking and running.

  • 2 inside running lanes, 2 outside walking lanes
  • Parking permit required during the semester (includes guest pass and community permit)
  • Available when classes are in session

Recreational Skating

Recreational ice skating programs are offered to provide a safe, fun, and inclusive environment for all skill levels.

  • Held in the Deborah F. Stanley Arena
  • Minimal admission fee
  • Rental skates are available
  • Available when classes are in session