Trend Report: Emerging Ideas Shaping Campus Recreation and Student Wellness

Campus recreation centers today are now so much bigger than just weight rooms. Gone are the days of intramural sports being at the center of it all. Now, they’re evolving by the day in new and exciting ways to meet the changing needs of students. Here, we interviewed experts in the campus recreation space to identify the top emerging trends shaking up the rec space this year. 

1. Honing in on Mental Health & Holistic Well-Being

Mental health continues to be a priority area of focus for student well-being, with recreation centers playing a key role in providing that support. John Marcotte, VP of Sales at Advantage Sport & Fitness, a fitness equipment distributor that designs commercial recreation and wellness centers, has seen this shift start to take place. Marcotte observes that "there has been a move to merge campus recreation and student wellness services under the same umbrella, which has introduced a new emphasis on mental health, diet, and nutrition." This integration highlights the more holistic approach campuses are embracing to address student needs. 

Steven Trotter, Director Well-Being at East Carolina University, also underscored the importance of “exercise for mental health” noting it as a key component to self-care. Many wellness programs have been reshaped for the better by acknowledging physical activity as a positive impact on mental health. Colleges are doing more to focus on the full student, addressing not just academic and athletic needs in isolation, but overall well-being, helping students to get support in all aspects of their lives.

2. Integration of Technology & Self-Directed Fitness

Technology’s role has grown significantly, driven by app-based, self-directed exercise platforms like Peloton. Marcotte notes that "students are doing a lot more bodyweight and functional training with minimal products needed, in open floor space, with or without guidance on their phones." This shift highlights the growth of app-based exercise, which allows students a more flexible and personalized fitness routine. Via Peloton App, students can easily access thousands of classes taught by expert-level instructors that fit their goals, music taste, experience level, and schedule – for nearly half the price of App One’s standard pricing.

The emphasis on convenience and accessibility also drives technology-forward solutions for program sign-ups and accessing wellness services. Stephanie Smith, Director of Recreation at MIT adds that "booking facility spaces, signing up for intramural programs, club sports, nap pods, massages, nutrition coaching, open rec pickleball — all of these need to be easily and quickly accessible for our students and campus community members."

The introduction of AI is also expected to change how campus recreation facilities operate. Smith predicts, "AI on campuses and how we’re safely and effectively using AI technology in our spaces" will be a significant trend. AI could streamline operations, from personalizing workout recommendations to managing facility usage. 

3. Super Flexible & Multi-Functional Spaces

The layout of recreation facilities is evolving to accommodate a wider range of activities and needs. Marcotte notes a trend towards "more floor space dedicated to functional and strength training. Plus, open areas for students to follow app-based workouts or create self-directed exercises."

Trotter emphasizes the need for convertible spaces for a variety of activities, from weightlifting to meditation. Trotter also mentions the need for "flexible and convertible spaces" to accommodate personalized fitness activities.

Designing facilities that incorporate sustainability to enhance well-being also comes into play. Kelley Hungerford, Assistant Director of Expo & Corporate Relations at National Intramural and Recreational Sports Association (NIRSA) highlights this trend: she says, "New or renovated rec centers often embrace sustainability and biophilic design as a way to intentionally incorporate well-being into the physical structure of these buildings."

4. Next-Level Recovery & Rehabilitation Services

Trotter has observed the growing trend of recovery and rehabilitation methods with campus recreation centers. He notes that "more recovery and rehabilitation modalities like massage chair, dry needling, percussion, cupping, etc." are becoming integral to the facilities. The focus on recovery as a crucial component of fitness and well-being creates a more well-rounded fitness space. 

Trotter also points out that, "some campus rec [departments] now have full-time staff to provide these student services," similar to athletic intramural programs. This focus on recovery services shows higher education’s commitment to students' holistic well-being. By integrating these methods, they can help students perform physically and recover effectively, reducing injury risks and promoting long-term health.

5. Strengthening Community Building & Inclusivity

Building community and fostering inclusivity are essential aspects of modern campus recreation programs. Smith underscores the role of the recreation center as a place where "students can come together to play, socialize, and, yes, exert themselves in such a way that will benefit their sleep, stress, anxiety, and more." The focus on creating environments that support social interaction and community building is crucial for student well-being.

By integrating wellness services, campuses can provide more support that addresses a wide range of student needs. Smith adds, “Our grad students on campus are asking for more programming specific to where they are at in their careers, and often bring spouses, partners and children with them to campus, so it’s important for us that we’re offering mid-day family programming and one-time events that build community.” 

All of these trends reflect a more comprehensive approach to student well-being, from integrating physical, mental, and social health to bolstering a more inclusive campus environment. By embracing these trends, campus rec leaders can create spaces that support physical fitness and promote holistic well-being, supporting students to thrive both academically and personally.

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