Your gift supports physical fitness programs.
Good physical fitness habits carry well throughout life. Studies show students participating in campus recreation activities are more likely to report better overall wellness including physical health, psychosocial health, and learning outcomes. The University of Pittsburgh’s new Recreation and Wellness Center is designed with an eye for inclusivity—whether a student is a club sport athlete, fitness enthusiast, or a workout novice, there is a space where they will feel a sense of belonging.
Prospective students have come to expect these types of high-quality facilities and they are often among the deciding factors when accepting admissions offers.
Climbing and Bouldering
When exposed to climbing sports for the first time, one quickly understands why they test your strength, stamina, and problem-solving abilities. A three-story climbing wall and accompanying bouldering facility will rise through the core of the RWC meeting growing student expectations. Guided climbing sessions also offer social and team-building opportunities for students.
“I had never been on a climbing wall before coming to Pitt. It is now one of my favorite activities for physical exercise, social interactions, and to relieve stress. I became a certified instructor through Pitt and now teach others to climb and this amazing new wall will continue to attract new students who will also get hooked on the sport while developing new friendships.” -Jason Case (BUS ’25)
Sky Track
Looping around the top floor for the RWC is the Sky Track. This wide, state-of-the-art surface can accommodate beginner and experienced runners and walkers looking to simply get their heart rate up or to train for a 10K—all at the same time. The soaring views of the campus and city will enthrall walkers and runners and encourage them to pursue healthy habits.
Strength Training
Depending on one’s goals, free weights and resistance training can be used to tone muscles, improve strength, increase bone density, and build a powerful core for better health. Ample room has been designated in the RWC for all types of strength training using the safest and most advanced equipment.
“To achieve wellness, you must seek a duality of physical and mental growth. I spend several hours a day pursuing my passion for powerlifting. That is not for everyone, but we all need a healthy place to blow off steam. Maintaining and updating the equipment and programming in the RWC will ensure this spectacular facility benefits students for decades.” -Pirro Prifti (BUS '24) Pitt Powerlifitng Club member
Sports Courts
Team and individual sports played on the hardwoods support cardiovascular fitness, hand-eye coordination, outlets for one’s competitive nature, and the need to “blow off steam.” The eighth floor of the building will house 13,000 sq. ft. of basketball, volleyball, and multi-use court space.
E-Sports Arena
E-sports turns online gaming into a competitive team sport. E-sports leagues, no different than more traditional intermural or intramural sports, are growing in number and popularity around the world. Our state-of-the-art facility will support the most accomplished E-sports players while opening the door to new participants.
"This facility will offer opportunities to support student well-being, no matter their interests. Individuals can learn to swim, compete on an intramural team, drop by the stress-free zone, or join a cycling class. The exercise, fitness, and wellness habits established at the RWC will help them perform better academically, de-stress, and foster well-being today and after graduation"
-Jay Darr, Associate Dean for Student Wellness