The Student Recreation and Wellness Center introduced semester-long events for Spring 2022 to encourage students to form healthy habits.

“Our goal is to help people develop a habit and become a little bit healthier,” said senior assistant director for guest services and marketing Jim Kraus.

Programs like Dare 2 Tri and T.R.E.K. KSU allow participants to break down larger fitness challenges into smaller, more enjoyable experiences over the course of a semester Kraus said.

Dare 2 Tri is a self-paced triathlon or duathlon that is tracked throughout the semester. Students must finish a 2.4-mile swim, 112-mile bike ride and a 26.6-mile race.

Participants track their workouts throughout the week and submit their progress through an online form. Those registered for the triathlon must complete all three events, while those doing the duathlon choose two out of the three.

“Students can break down the challenge day-by-day. One day you can bike a couple miles, the next day go for a run and the day after that, go for a swim. It’s really up to how you want to approach it,” Kraus said.

All participants will receive a T-shirt once registered and an award when they complete the challenge.

“Trips, Recreation, Explore, Kent State,” better known as T.R.E.K., is a self-paced program geared toward people who enjoy outdoor activity. It is sponsored by the Adventure Center.

“The goal is to be accessible for anybody who goes outside,” Kraus said. “We’ve planned several trips and partnered with an employee wellness program to promote employee health. A person can go on one of our trips or simply just walk their dog. Both would count towards the total miles trekked.”

Once registered, participants receive a hiking stick with a Kent State University T.R.E.K. medallion, accompanied by a $5 coupon code toward Kent State Adventure Center treks.

Participants can earn more medallions by engaging in specific programs and hitting milestones throughout the semester.

“You don’t have to be in the greatest shape or be the greatest athlete,” Kraus said. “The goal is to get you started on a healthier path.”

The recreation center offers 2,000 programs annually, so there are fitness opportunities to fit all needs. Upcoming events and activities can be found on the rec event calendar.

Madison Goerl is a reporter. Contact her at [email protected].