Pilots Prevent
Recreational Services
September 7, 2021
Staying Active at UP: Recreational Space, Fitness Classes, Outdoor Pursuits, Intramurals
Fall Semester is in full swing, and the UP community is back to work and the classroom. In the midst of class, studying, social and work obligations, it’s important to find ways to stay active. Whether it’s taking a Brazilian Jiujitsu class, practicing your rock-climbing skills, weightlifting, or getting outside to explore the Pacific Northwest, The Beauchamp Recreation & Wellness Center has a plethora of offerings for students, staff, and faculty.
Brian Dezzani, director of Recreational Services, is excited to welcome everyone back to Beauchamp. “It’s fun to have people back in the building,” he says. He is also welcoming new staff to the rec center, including Recreations Operations Program Manager Britt Rosenthal, who oversees the fitness classes.
How to Visit
Beauchamp is fully open, though with some restrictions and enhanced sanitation procedures. Students will need to check in and out with their ID cards, and wear a mask in both indoor and outdoor spaces, regardless of vaccination status. For classes with personal equipment like yoga mats and blocks, participants will need to bring their own, and there are some available to purchase. The track, basketball courts, climbing wall, weight room, functional training spaces, and locker rooms are all open. Locker rentals are available by inquiring at the front desk.
Fitness Classes
In-person fitness classes are back with over 30 classes a week, free and open to students, faculty, and staff. There are even dedicated classes just for faculty and staff. Classes are open to registration two days in advance. With limited capacities, be sure to sign up online at recservices.up.edu. “We’ve seen a lot of classes filling up already,” says Rosenthal. Check the website and the @uprecservices Instagram account for latest class offerings. Currently, no Zoom fitness classes are being offered due to low participation, but Beauchamp staff are exploring the option of Zoom classes over long weekends and breaks.
Sports
Intramural sports are in session! Activities include kickball, sand volleyball, bocci ball, flag football, table tennis, badminton, soccer, and more. “We’re keeping it pretty much outdoors until things change,” says Dezzani. Intramural sports are free and open to students, staff, and faculty. The calendar and latest information are online, and through @portlandintramurals on Instagram.
Get Outside
If you’re looking to really get away for an off-campus outdoorsy adventure, the Outdoor Pursuits Program (OPP) has options for you. Matt Libby, OPP manager, is excited about upcoming trips this semester. “We’re doing a backpacking and South Sister summit, and we’re trying to do our first surfing trip over at Ecola State Park.” Those are just two trips out of more than 40 for this semester. You can find the schedule and information online, and reserve your space in-person or over the phone. The @upoutdoorpursuits account on Instagram also has updated information and announcements.
Trips are mostly student-led (students can apply for these positions in the Spring), and there’s something for everyone— day hikes, backpacking, kayaking, climbing Mt. St. Helens. Getting outside is an excellent way to stay active. There are some safety protocols—students will be required to wear masks when they’re together outdoors, though if they’re able to social distance they can remove them. Vans are thoroughly cleaned.
If you’re looking for your own outdoor adventure, OPP rents an array of equipment, including stand-up paddle boards, kayaks, snowshoes, hiking and camping gear, bikes, and more. Lists and pricing are online. Libby recommends reserving larger equipment like kayaks in advance by emailing oppmail@up.edu. OPP also operates a bike shop, offering affordable services, repairs, and rentals.
If (like many people) you’re intimidated about using the equipment, joining a class, or want a tour, just stop by the front desk at Beauchamp and the friendly staff will welcome you, give you a tour, and answer any questions. “We really want you to have fun,” says Rosenthal. “This is for the UP community—and remember to wear your mask!”
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5000 N. Willamette Blvd.,
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