Allison LillestolCommunity Reporter Group wellness With nine gyms across the nation, the Bouldering Project offers students many ways to get active all in one place. “You get out of your house to go workout and meet with people, and it’s a safer way to do it, instead of having to run on your own,” Lauinger […]
Allison LillestolCommunity Reporter
Group wellness
With nine gyms across the nation, the Bouldering Project offers students many ways to get active all in one place.
“You get out of your house to go workout and meet with people, and it’s a safer way to do it, instead of having to run on your own,” Lauinger said. “If you can just convince yourself to get out there, once you’re around people, you’re way more likely to finish the run and go further.”
For students missing the fun of gym class or playing their favorite sports, look no further than Sun Devil Intramurals.
Barrett George said he founded the hiking club in April 2024 as a way to meet new people who share a love for the outdoors. The club meets at least once a month and the trails are accessible for all skill levels.
George said members can vote on the trail for the next hike and day on the Scottsdale Hiking Club Instagram.
Intramural sports
Allison is a sophomore studying journalism and mass communication. This is her first semester at The State Press. She has also worked at Arizona PBS and Blaze Radio.
George said hiking is great for staying both physically and mentally well.
Like The State Press on Facebook and follow @statepress on X.
“We’re naturally meant to be walking through nature, climbing through trees and rocks, and getting out in the fresh air,” George said, “There’s just something truly special about it.”
The gym also provides equipment, such as shoes and a chalk bag for first-time visitors.
Scottsdale Run Club
Sydney North, a fitness instructor and sophomore studying medical studies, said attending group wellness classes is good for students not only physically but also mentally.
In rain or shine, the Scottsdale Run Club is a great way for students to connect and run with a community.
For students wanting to get out before the day starts, Avi Boyd, a student services coordinator at Watts College of Public Service and Community Solutions, said the Watts West Wellness Weekly Walking Wanderings are a great way to start a morning.
Students can participate in sports, such as basketball and corn hole, or sign up as a “free agent,” and get placed on a team needing an extra player, Fisher said.
Students can sign up to take North’s barre class along with many others on the SDFC website.
Tempe Bouldering Project
North said when she came to college, it was hard to learn how to workout alone and that the group wellness classes became a great way to exercise and make friends.
They said the walks are a great way for students to stay active, connect with their community and explore the many green spaces on campus.
Jack Lauinger started the club in September 2023 as a way for people to connect and make friends without relying on bars or nightlife.
Scottsdale Hiking Club
Boyd, who began the walks in August, said every Wednesday the group takes about a 5-kilometer walk — which is typically 3.2 miles — around the West Valley campus.
If you’re looking for a slower paced workout but want something with amazing views, the Scottsdale Hiking Club has got you covered.
Wellness is an important part of staying both mentally and physically healthy, but knowing where to start can be overwhelming. ASU offers a few options for Sun Devils to get exercise and focus on wellness outside of the gym.
“Its a fun way in which students can see around campus and get connected with people and our environment in general,” Boyd said. “Being outdoors just in and of itself can help so much.”
Always wanted to unwind with a yoga class or looking to learn martial arts? Each Sun Devil Fitness Complex offers group wellness classes taught by student instructors that are completely free for students.
Wellness walks
Boyd said everyone is welcome to join, including pets.
“I’ve noticed such a difference in my mood,” North said. “It’s super important especially when it comes to school, grades, things like that. It keeps me going. It keeps me well.”
Boyd said they started the walks to ensure that students have a community they can meet with every week. The walks became a way for students to connect and share concerns and support, they added.
Reach the reporter at alillest@asu.edu and follow @allylillestol on X.
Edited by Senna James, Abigail Beck, Sophia Ramirez and Katrina Michalak.
“Currently, it’s planned to go until May then hopefully having it start back up in the fall of next year,” Boyd said.
Students from any campus can find the registration and schedule on the SDFC website.
The Tempe gym offers climbing, yoga and fitness classes. According to the website, students do not need any prior experience to join and can come by the gym anytime during their hours, as no reservations are needed.
Lauinger said the club is open to all skill levels and meets on Saturdays at 9 a.m. in Old Town Scottsdale and Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m. in Tempe.
“Intramural sports is like ‘Home run, knock it out of the park’ when it comes to being healthy, physically and mentally,” Fisher said. “You’re enjoying being around your friends and you’re playing sports. What’s better?”
