Welcome to the first edition of the Exercise is Medicine Newsletter! We are here to connect you with opportunities, events, and information about how physical activity can promote health and well-being. You can expect to hear from us every couple months.

In this issue, we offer resources to help you get through finals while taking care of your physical and mental health.

What is the Exercise is Medicine - On Campus program?

Exercise is Medicine (EIM) is a collaborative effort between UHS, Rec Sports, School of Public Health, and the Dept. of Phys Ed, that aims to reduce your barriers to physical activity, help you explore the many available programs on campus, and support your engagement in physical activities of your choice to improve your mental health, physical health, and wellbeing.

The Program includes:

• Orientation to physical activity resources on campus 
• 1-to-1 Health Coaching 
• Fitness consultations with a certified Personal Trainer at Rec Sports

Free Personal Training Sessions!

Do you want to boost your physical fitness but need help getting started?

If you are not meeting the CDC's recommended activity guidelines — which suggest at least 150 minutes of aerobic activity and at least two days of muscle-strengthening activities each week—then our EIM program is here to help!

We offer students who want to meet these guidelines three free personal training sessions. During these sessions, a certified fitness professional will listen to your interests and goals and tailor an activity plan that works for you. 

Use this link to sign up for the program or click the button below. Our Fitness Program Coordinator will contact you to schedule your sessions. 

Whether you're new to exercise or looking to improve your workouts, our program is designed to support you.

Let's work together to help you reach your fitness goals!

Upcoming Events

Walk to a New Study Space

Study for finals at one of these off-campus cafes only a short walk from campus!

Victory Point Cafe

1797 Shattuck Ave.

Located on Shattuck Ave near the northwest corner of campus, this cafe is a great place to get some work done and unwind by grabbing one of the hundreds of board game titles the cafe has on hand! Only a brisk 10 minute walk from the center of campus.

Baker and Commons

2900 College Ave.

Looking for a little longer of a walk? Take a stroll down College Ave and you’ll end up at Baker and Commons, a coffee shop in the heart of the Elmwood area known for its pastries and breakfast items. Stop by for a nice spot to study and grab a bite to eat!

Berkeley Espresso

1900 Shattuck Ave.

Close to Victory Point Cafe on Shattuck Ave, Berkeley Espresso is the place to study for coffee lovers and smaller cafe enjoyers alike. Take a quick 5 minute walk off campus to enjoy their selection of coffee and baked goods.

Class Highlight

Considering classes for next semester? Check out the flyer below to learn more about the new Inclusive Recreation: Adaptive Sports DeCal class starting this Fall!

Let's Go Outside!

Take advantage of the longer days and the nicer weather by making time to explore the great outdoors of Berkeley. Treating yourself to some time outside is important to balance out the hard work you are doing in front of your screens and books. See below for a list of ideas for a local adventure!

Down By the Bay

There’s nothing like taking a stroll along the water to clear your mind and energize your body. It’s easier than you think to access - just hop on the bus and take a 15 minute ride down towards the Berkeley Marina. César Chávez Park features hiking trails, including the 1.25 mile Dorothy Stegmann trail around the park’s perimeter that is fully wheelchair accessible. Pack a picnic and enjoy the view of all three bridges, Alcatraz, and Angel Island!

Wander and Discover Berkeley's Pathways

The city of Berkeley is unusually blessed with an extensive network of pedestrian pathways. The Berkeley Path Wanderers Association offers free guided walks, a map of Berkeley's path network, and builds/maintains paths on city-owned rights of way. Find a secret staircase to explore by checking out their resources for self guided walks. Prefer to stick to campus? Here is a list of campus walking routes to try out.

Cal Running Club

All levels are welcome at the student run Cal Running Club that usually meets 6 days a week. Running is more fun when there’s a crew to cheer each other on! Check out their Discord and Instagram to stay up to date.

RecWell Outdoor Adventures 

Check out this list of self-guided local outdoor adventures curated by the folks at RecWell Adventures. While you are there, take a look at the guided kayaking adventures on offer or simply rent a kayak on your own schedule. Rentals are free for students!