University of Richmond Named to Most Fit Colleges List
October 9, 2006
University of Richmond has been named the tenth fittest college in the nation by Men’s Fitness magazine. The second annual ranking of the 25 fittest colleges appeared in the magazine’s October issue.
To find the fittest colleges, Men’s Fitness consulted with The Princeton Review, surveying nearly 12,500 students from 115 colleges and universities. The rankings were based on student responses to questions about their diet, physical activity, sedentary time (other than studying), how much fast-food was available on campus, whether the college offered extended gym hours and nutritionists, and how fit individuals considered their own campuses to be.
Richmond was the highest-ranking Virginia institution on the list, just ahead of No. 11 University of Virginia. Other Virginia colleges on the list include Roanoke College, Virginia Tech and University of Mary Washington. Dickinson College ranked No. 1.
Men’s Fitness editor-in-chief Neal Boulton said the top schools on the list offer a range of nutrition and exercise choices, rather than forcing students into a strict regimen.
Richmond is currently constructing the 59,000 sq. ft Weinstein Center for Recreation and Wellness, scheduled to open in January with a three-court gym, running track and state-of-the art fitness center. Total cost of the new facility is $13.5 million.
“I have always believed we have outstanding and comprehensive recreation and wellness programs at the University of Richmond,” said Tom Roberts, director of recreation and wellness. “With the opening of the Weinstein Center, we will have even greater programs and facilities. The construction of this facility will communicate clearly that the university is as committed to students’ health and wellness as it is to their intellectual development.