The benefits of Campus Recreation
Photo credit: Gettysburg College Athletics
By Meredith Cox, Staff Writer and Cindy Wright, Director of the Jaeger Center/Campus Recreation
The Princeton Review ranks Gettysburg at 5th in the nation for “Best Athletic Facilities” and 3rd in the nation as a school where “Everyone Plays Intramural Sports.” Over 95% of students participate in an intramural during their time at Gettysburg. Gettysburg offers an unparalleled campus recreation program and experience, and it is never too late to get involved. The current intramural teams are for volleyball, indoor soccer, and badminton. For the spring semester look out for basketball, inter-tube water polo, floor hockey, outdoor soccer, and more!
Students say that participating in an intramural sport at Gettysburg has led to positive vibes, fun, new friends, good feelings, and increased productivity.
It is not just these student testimonials that support the argument for campus recreation involvement, but there is also scientific evidence and research showing a positive correlation between campus recreation and academic performance.
One study showed that spending an afternoon in the gym yields positive results at the library. Exercise not only leads to healthier outcomes and better health status, but students are more likely to have academic success when they hit the gym. This study showed that for every one-hour increase in weekly physical activities, a student’s GPA increased by 0.06. Results also showed lower rates of depression and stress in those who are physically active which yields higher academic success.
Another study shows that those who participate in campus recreation have a higher interest in staying fit and healthy. They also feel that their overall level of well-being is improved by participating in these activities. When the level of participation is higher, the feelings of improved health increases. Interestingly, students reported that campus recreation activities equipped them with skills for life after college, including time management, respect for other participants and respect for facilities and services. Many students participate in campus recreation for the enjoyment of friendships that they formulated during their campus rec experiences.
If you just do not have the time to commit to joining an intramural team, campus recreation also sponsors shorter active programming. You can sign up for one-day events sponsored by campus recreation, including Late Night Bowling. Also, try one of the amazing classes that the Jaeger Center offers to students. The classes are open to all levels, and include activities such as HIT, dancing, yoga, spinning and strength building. Gettysburg College even has club sports, if you are looking for more of a stable team and time commitment, including Men’s and Women’s rugby, ice-hockey, ultimate Frisbee, equestrian, and fencing. Yet another option is the Den, or the rock-climbing wall featured as a focal point in the Jaeger Center. It has flexible hours and is a great place for an introduction to climbing or sharpening your roping technique. There is no lack of opportunities to get involved with campus recreation, so find one that peaks your interest, give it a try and enjoy the physical and academic benefits of physical activity.
