Summer is a unique time on Miami University’s campus, as very few students and faculty members are still here. But if you are one of the ones that has chosen to either take classes or work while living in Oxford, then you know how tough it may be to stay active and healthy. We’ve compiled a list of our favorite ways to get outside and exercise here in Oxford while still enjoying the freedom of summer. From right on campus, to the outskirts of town, there are plenty of ways to stay active and have fun doing it!
1. Visit Hueston Woods State Park
Hueston Woods State Park is located just over 10 minutes from Miami University’s campus. This slightly hidden destination serves as a getaway for students to enjoy recreational activities especially in the summer. Whether you’re looking to book a tee time for a day on their beautiful golf course or rent one of their boats including pontoons, canoes and paddle boats, Hueston Woods is the perfect way to enjoy the summer sunshine and get away from the bustle of campus. The Miami University Outdoor Pursuit Center also offers various boat rentals that can be used at the state park. Follow the links below for more information on boat rentals, hiking, disc golf and other recreational activities.
https://miamioh.edu/campus-services/miami-recreation/program-areas/outdoor-pursuit-center/index.html
https://www.huestonwoodslodge.com/recreation
2. Disc Golf
If you’re not looking to travel off campus for recreational activity but are still looking for a way to enjoy the outdoors this summer, look no further than Western Campus for Miami University Recreation’s very own 18-basket Disc Golf Course. Walking the 1500 foot course full of hills and wooded scenery will simply take your breath away. You can also enjoy some outdoor art installations found on the course near the Miami University Art Museum. The course is completely free and open 24 hours a day. The link below will take you to the map and downloadable scorecard.
https://miamioh.edu/campus-services/miami-recreation/facilities/outdoor-facilities/index.html
3. Swimming
The Corwin M. Nixon Aquatic Center at Miami University’s Recreation Center consists of an eight-lane, 50-meter pool, and a separate 25-meter dive well, containing 1m, 5m, 7.5m, and 10m platforms, a leisure pool, and a spa. Here you will find students, faculty and Oxford residents exercising, relaxing and enjoying this world class facility. The summer is an especially great time to beat the heat and the regular semester crowds while getting a great workout in at the Rec Center. To learn more about special programming, classes and facility hours, follow the link below.
https://miamioh.edu/campus-services/miami-recreation/program-areas/aquatics/index.html
4. Sand Volleyball
The Sand Volleyball courts at Miami University’s Recreation Center may be tucked behind the building and sometimes forgotten but they are regulation sized and ready for you to Bump, Set and Spike on! These courts are open for use starting at the end of March through December 1st and are a fun way to get your friends or family together for some competition. They are also used for Intramural Sand Volleyball during the school year.
https://miamioh.edu/campus-services/miami-recreation/facilities/outdoor-facilities/index.html
5. Group Fitness Classes
Although many students head home for summer break, many of our group fitness instructors are still here preparing for your return. There are also a handful of classes still offered during summer term including Total Body Tone, Spinning and Yoga. Staying active during the summer can be especially tough, so don’t try to tackle it alone and join us here at the Rec Center for some great group workouts. Visit the link below to read more about class descriptions, class schedules and pricing of group fitness membership packages.
By Emily Comos, Miami University Rec Center Marketing Assistant