The Rec Report

Make the Most of Fall Semester with RecWell

Make the Most of Fall Semester with RecWell

Welcome back to campus, Gophers! We hope that you had a restful, enjoyable summer, and we are so excited to see you all back at RecWell. Each semester comes with the opportunity to try something new, and at RecWell, we have plenty of options for you to explore! From fitness classes to outdoor adventures with the Center for Outdoor Adventure (COA), there is something for everyone to try this semester! Learn more on the Rec Report

How RecWell Redesigns Their Spaces

How RecWell Redesigns Their Spaces

Have you ever wondered how RecWell decides what equipment will be in each fitness center? It might seem like we head to the nearest equipment store and grab the latest gear, but the reality is much more thoughtful and strategic. Making sure students have the best experience possible is at the center of all our decisions! Learn more on the Rec Report

Congrats, Graduates May 13th, 2025 with sunny outside day at outside Recreation and Wellness Center

Congrats, Graduates

Graduation is a bittersweet time for the RecWell community as we prepare to say goodbye to the incredible student workers who have been the heart and soul of our programming. Whether they were leading our group fitness classes, ensuring smooth operations at the front desk, maintaining our facilities, or running our social media, these graduating seniors have left a lasting impact on their respective departments and our entire RecWell community. Learn more at The Rec Report

Pickleball versus Tennis April 25, 2025 with a pickleball net and tennis racket

Pickleball Versus Tennis

As the snow melts and the flowers begin to bloom, members of the RecWell community start to think about summer plans. For many, these include days at the lakes, summer internships, spending time in nature, and, of course, outdoor sports. For years, tennis has reigned supreme as the go-to summer racquet sport. But lately, a new contender has arrived on the scene, paddle in hand and ready to rally… pickleball. Learn more at The Rec Report. 

Celebrating Spring at Kindness Grows

Celebrating Spring at Kindness Grows

On March 28, RecWell hosted its annual Kindness Grows event, where students gathered on the RecWell patio to paint flower pots, listen to music, and gather with friends. With classes ramping up as we approach finals season, it is important to take time for self-care and activities that bring you joy. Learn more at The Rec Report

Celebrating 50 Years of UMN Women's Club Hockey

Celebrating 50 Years of UMN Women's Club Hockey

The UMN Women's Club Hockey team recently celebrated its 50th anniversary with a weekend full of events and reunions. On Friday, January 18th, alumni from all years gathered for an alumni skate session. It was heartwarming for current players to see so many former players still passionate about the sport, skating together and reminiscing about their time on the team. Learn more at The Rec Report

The Inside scoop on personal training at RecWell

The Inside Scoop on Personal Training at RecWell

Did you know that RecWell offers personal training sessions for all members at the Minneapolis and St. Paul facilities? In these sessions, nationally certified personal trainers work with you one-on-one to create customized exercise programs to help you achieve your health and fitness goals. Learn more at The Rec Report

ACHIEVING GOALS TOGETHER AT TRI U MAH with people running on the treadmill

Achieving Goals Together at Tri U Mah

Every February, RecWell hosts Tri U Mah, a staple for the RecWell community over the last 21 years. Each year, alumni, community members, faculty, and students come together to test their endurance and have fun in a supportive environment. Tri U Mah is a unique indoor triathlon that consists of three segments: swimming, indoor cycling, and running on a treadmill. Learn more on The Rec Report

BUILDING COMMUNITY THROUGH CLIMBING: BRYAN KARBAN’S IMPACT ON COA text with people climbing

Building Community through Climbing: Bryan Karban's Impact on COA

The Center for Outdoor Adventure (COA) is an important part of RecWell, offering students, staff, and the community a gateway to outdoor activities and adventures. In addition to providing high-quality indoor climbing experiences and outdoor adventures, COA is a welcoming and comfortable place for students to try new skills and build their community. Building this positive environment would not be possible without the support and guidance of Bryan Karban, COA’s Outdoor Program Director. Learn more on The Rec Report

BUILDING COMMUNITY AND STRENGTH AT SMALL GROUP TRAINING with people boxing in small group

Building Community and Strength at Small Group Training

At RecWell, we believe that fitness isn’t just about building muscle, but about strengthening your community and building a positive, welcoming environment at the gym. One of our favorite ways to do this is through our Small Group Training program. Learn more on The Rec Report!

Tips for Spring Semester Success at RecWell

Tips for Spring Semester Success at RecWell

Welcome back to campus, Gophers! As we begin a semester full of new classes, opportunities, and connections, we want to remind you of some tips and tricks for using RecWell so that you can have the best experience possible! Learn more by visiting our blog.

 
 


 

UMN Men's Soccer Club wins National Championship

UMN Men's Soccer Club wins National Championship

On November 23, The University of Minnesota Men’s Soccer Club won the 2024 NIRSA National Open Championship after an intense 20-kick shootout in the final. During the tournament, held just outside Austin, Texas, the team navigated a series of challenging matches before emerging as national champions after defeating UCLA, ending their season with an undefeated record of 15-2-0. Learn more by visiting our blog.

Promoting Wellness with Boyton Health

Promoting Wellness with Boyton Health

As finals season approaches, it is important to take time to care of your wellbeing, both physical and mental. At RecWell, we are devoted to not only providing access to physical activity, but access and resources for individuals to pursue wellness as a whole. Through partnerships with campus partners, we are able to help students be the best version of themselves. Learn more by visiting our blog.

Pets of the Rec

Pets of the Rec

At RecWell, we believe that the joy and companionship our furry friends provide is an essential part of our well-being. So, as the semester comes to an end, we wanted to introduce you to the pets of our staff members, sharing their stories, photos, and fun facts about them! Learn more by visiting our blog

Creating Community at the New Climbing Training Center

Creating Community at the New Climbing Training Center

On November 18, RecWell hosted the grand opening of the new Climbing Training Center located in the North Building of Recreation and Wellness. The opening event featured demonstrations of how to use the climbing wall, a live DJ, and giveaways to attendees. Learn more by visiting our blog.

Celebrating Community and Connection at Small World Coffee Hour

At RecWell and International Student and Scholar Services’ Small World Coffee Hour, students from around the world come to make friends, exchange ideas, learn about different cultures, and gain new perspectives. Learn more by visiting our blog.

Building Community and Creating Friendships at RecWell's Homecoming Parade

On Friday, October 25, RecWell staff, alumni, and family members gathered together to celebrate the Homecoming Parade, an annual tradition that celebrates school spirit and community. Learn more by visiting our blog

Creating summer memories for all RecWell's camper ship drive

Creating Summer Memories for all with RecWell's Campership Drive

Every year in November, RecWell hosts its annual Campership fundraiser to support our greater community and ensure that all children can experience the joy and growth that comes from attending summer programming. Learn more by visiting our blog.

What does RecWell mean to you?

As the leaves begin to fall and the days grow shorter, midterm season quietly creeps in. For many, this includes blocking off time to take a trip to RecWell to try a new sport or activity, workout with friends, or have a change of scenery at one of the Rec’s many study spaces. Learn more by visiting our blog

Building Community and Pens at RecWell's InkWell Event

Inkwell, RecWell’s fall event, was hosted Oct. 18 and so many students turned out! Students had the chance to come together, spend time with friends, and take a break from studying while making their own pens. Learn more by visiting our blog

Breaking Barriers to Wellness: RecWell launches the National Fitness Campaign Court

On September 27, RecWell, with support from the Student Services Fees Committee, BlueCross BlueShield of Minnesota and The National Fitness Campaign (NFC), proudly unveiled the new NFC Fitness Court at Superblock. Learn more by visiting our blog

Exploring Wellness and Community at RecWell and MCAE's "Sweat with Soul"

On September 24, RecWell and the Multicultural Center for Academic Excellence (MCAE), hosted Sweat with Soul to create an opportunity for BIPOC and First-Gen students to explore what wellness means to them. Learn more by visiting our blog

Experience the Outdoors Through COA

From rock climbing and bouldering, to outdoor gear rentals, to guided backpacking trips, the Center for Outdoor Adventure (COA) is a one-stop-shop for all things outdoors. Learn more by visiting our blog

One Year of Gopher Swim School

Gopher Swim School (GSS) is celebrating its one year anniversary! While the University of Minnesota Recreation and Wellness Center’s swimming lesson program existed before 2023, GSS features a refreshed brand and structure that offers lessons for children and adults alike. Learn more by visiting our blog

At RecWell, Kindness Grows

On April 3, 2024, RecWell hosted its annual Kindness Grows event, where RecWell members have the opportunity to decorate pots, plant flowers or herbs, and relax with friends. Learn more by visiting our blog.

University of Minnesota Special Olympics

The University of Minnesota Special Olympics club offers inclusive sports for both students and community members. Creating opportunities for people with intellectual disabilities, Special Olympics allows participants to grow connections, foster a community, and play competitive sports with their peers. Read more about it on our blog.

How Tri U Mah Has Been Connecting Families, Friends, And Fitness For 20 Years

Join RecWell in celebrating the 20th anniversary of Tri U Mah! We couldn't be more excited to host our 20th annual indoor triathlon, where competitors race in 30 minutes of swimming, 30 minutes of indoor cycling, and 30 minutes of treadmill running. Read our blog to learn all about it.

Celebrating RecWell Journeys

This year marks 10 years since RecWell’s addition of the South Building and 30 years since the North Building of RecWell was built. To reflect on RecWell’s history, I sat down with some of our staff to discuss the milestones and developments they have seen through the years. Visit our blog to read what they had to say.

Back to School Self-Care

As summer comes to an end, it’s important to prioritize self-care while getting ready for the school year to begin. Read our blog for some self-care activities that you can do before school starts to feel calmer heading into September.

men's crew photo

Men's Crew Novice Four Wins National Championship

The men's crew novice four team won the U of M's first National Championship since 2014 during the American Collegiate Rowing Association Regatta in Tennessee. Read our blog to learn more about their team and what it took to win.

Sam Capstone Blog Photo

The Importance of a Body Positive Mindset: An Interview with Recent Graduate Sam Fedderly

Recent graphic design graduate Sam Fedderly created a brand surrounding male body dissatisfaction for his capstone project. “Inspired by the success of women’s body positivity movements,” his brand, bruv, states that “we are proud to create an inclusive space where men can embrace their bodies with confidence and self-acceptance.” Read our blog to learn more about Sam's story and his capstone!

Women's Rugby wins all mn tournament

Women's Rugby Wins All-MN Tournament

In late April, the women's club rugby team won the All-MN tournament after a long season and lots of hard work. Read our blog to learn more about their team and this tournament!