Recreation and Wellbeing Wellness Guide for Faculty at UIC

Holistic Wellbeing Through Physical Activity

As a faculty member at UIC, prioritizing your wellbeing through physical activity not only enhances your health but also supports your professional success and personal fulfillment. UIC’s Recreation and Wellbeing department is here to help you thrive.

1. Physical Wellbeing

Guidelines for Activity
Strive for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity per week, plus muscle-strengthening exercises on two or more days. Regular movement reduces stress, boosts energy, and improves overall health.

  • Exclusive Offer for Faculty NEW Recreation & Wellbeing Members:
    • Receive your first two months of membership FREE with any new membership. (Taxable fringe benefit payment will apply)
    • Afterward, monthly or biweekly payroll deductions will begin. See affordable payroll deduction rates here
    • If you choose not to continue with your membership, fill out and submit a membership cancellation form within the first 30 days of your membership.

 

 

  • Free Personal Training Offer: As a new member, enjoy a free personal training session by purchasing a general fitness assessment. Contact the FitWell Center at 312-413-5174 to schedule yours
  • Membership Benefits:
    • Access to two state-of-the-art facilities:
      • Sport & Fitness Center (828 S Wolcott)
      • Student Recreation Facility (737 S Halsted)
    • Use of outdoor spaces:
      • Outdoor courts (adjacent to SRF)
      • Outdoor Field Complex (900 W. 14th Place)
  • How to Sign Up:
    Visit SRF or SFC in person to activate your membership.
    For questions, contact us at uicrec@uic.edu.

2. Emotional Wellbeing

Stress Management
Participate in yoga, Pilates, or group fitness classes to manage stress and improve mood. Mindfulness-based movement practices are linked to long-term health benefits.

 

Social Connection
Join fitness classes or intramural teams with colleagues to build community and foster a sense of belonging.

 

3. Cognitive Wellbeing

Sharper Thinking
Physical activity enhances brain function, memory, and focus — boosting your productivity in teaching, research, and daily life.

 

4. Supporting Student Academic Success

Model and Promote Movement
Incorporate active learning strategies like walking discussions or standing breaks. Encourage students to:

  • Join fitness classes or intramurals
  • Visit the esports game room
  • Try F45 Training
  • Relax in the spa or sauna
  • Explore the outdoors with RecWell trips

 

5. Exercise is Medicine®
On Campus (EIM-OC)

UIC is a proud EIM-OC campus, promoting physical activity as a vital sign of health. Faculty can support this initiative by:

  • Making movement part of daily campus life
  • Encouraging students to assess physical activity during health visits
  • Using classroom time to promote healthy habits
  • Referring students to RecWell for fitness support

 

 

Did you know…
With a referral from your primary care provider, you’re eligible for a free General Fitness Assessment and consultation through the FitWell Center.

Call (312) 413-5174 or email fitness@uic.edu to schedule.

MoveWell: Exercise is Medicine® Classes
Faculty and staff can participate in MoveWell fitness classes — free and open to all, no membership required. These classes are designed to promote movement as medicine and are accessible to all fitness levels.

6. Stay Connected

Explore more about programs, memberships, and events at UIC Recreation and Wellbeing.

A digital copy of the RecWell Magazine is available on their homepage.

Let’s build a healthier, more connected UIC — together.