A new semester is here, and Harvard Recreation is welcoming students back with a full slate of free fitness and wellness events designed to help you ease into your routine, try something new, and reconnect with your community From swim assessments and equipment orientations to dance, tennis, and even yoga with a very special dog, Welcome Back Week and the weeks that follow offer something for everyone—no matter your fitness level or experience. Best of all, all events listed below are free for undergraduate students. Whether you're returning to familiar spaces or stepping into Harvard Rec for the first time, this is the perfect opportunity to explore what's available and find what works for you.
Wednesday, January 28: Kickoff Events
Meet the Training & Swim Instructor + Swim Class Assessment Malkin Athletic Center (MAC) 5:00–7:00 PM
This event is a great starting point for students interested in personal training or swim programming. Meet Harvard Recreation's personal trainers and swim instructors, ask questions, and learn more about available options.
Swim levels will be assessed on-site, allowing participants to be placed into the appropriate class level with confidence. Students who complete a swim assessment will also receive Harvard Recreation swim caps as swag.
What to bring: Bathing suit
Extras: Snacks, swag, and drinks provided
Meet the Tennis Pro Murr Tennis Courts 7:30–9:30 PM
Come meet Eli Goldstein, Harvard Recreation's new Recreational Tennis Pro. This free event offers students the chance to learn more about Eli's programming, ask questions, and preview his Cardio Tennis class in a fun, welcoming environment.
No prior tennis experience is required—this event is designed to be accessible and engaging for all levels.
Please bring your own tennis racquet.
Register here: https://membership.gocrimson.com/program/GetProgramDetails?courseId=cb9dc102-33ff-4188-a757-3be35a9ebc63
Thursday, January 29: Learn, Move & Dance
Equipment Orientation @ MAC
10:30 AM
(Registration opens tomorrow)
New to the gym or looking for a refresher? Equipment Orientations are designed to help students feel comfortable and confident using fitness equipment safely and effectively.
More info:
https://recreation.gocrimson.com/sports/2020/5/5/fitness-Text-fitteryou.aspx
Live Virtual Class: HIIT Cardio Dance
7:15 AM
Start your morning strong with this high-energy 45-minute HIIT Cardio Dance class, blending easy-to-follow dance movement with high-intensity intervals for a full-body workout.
No dance experience is required. Participants are encouraged to choose their own intensity level throughout class, making this session approachable for all fitness levels.
Register here:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSd9g0OsIxx3Vs-r6f5fP-0hZqMRDW_-JZsPW7rW9xhDdRQ_kA/viewform
Ongoing Opportunities: Early February Programming
Monday, February 2
Equipment Orientation @ MAC 10:30 AM
(Registration opens tomorrow) https://recreation.gocrimson.com/sports/2020/5/5/fitness-Text-fitteryou.aspx
Tuesday, February 3
Equipment Orientation – Hemenway Gym (HEM) 8:00 AM
(Registration opens tomorrow) https://recreation.gocrimson.com/sports/2020/5/5/fitness-Text-fitteryou.aspx
Wednesday, February 4
Equipment Orientation @ MAC 10:30 AM
(Registration opens tomorrow) https://recreation.gocrimson.com/sports/2020/5/5/fitness-Text-fitteryou.aspx
Movement Assessment – HEM 9:00 AM
(Registration opens tomorrow) https://recreation.gocrimson.com/sports/2020/5/5/fitness-Text-fitteryou.aspx
Movement Assessments provide individualized insight into how your body moves and can help guide safer, more effective training based on your goals.
Thursday, February 5
Dog-a with Sasha (Dog Yoga) 12:00 PM (Noon)
(Registration opens February 2 — stay tuned!)
Take a break from your day and unwind with this student-favorite wellness event featuring Sasha. Expect movement, relaxation, and plenty of smiles.
Movement Assessment – HEM 4:00 PM
(Registration opens tomorrow) https://recreation.gocrimson.com/sports/2020/5/5/fitness-Text-fitteryou.aspx
Looking Ahead: Presidents' Day Skate Party
Harvard Recreation is also planning a Skate Party over Presidents' Day weekend. More details are coming soon, but one thing is already confirmed: Free skate rentals all night for students.
Mark your calendars and keep an eye out for additional announcements.
Start the Semester Strong
Whether you're interested in fitness, skill-building, stress relief, or community connection, Harvard Recreation's Welcome Back and early semester programming offers something for everyone.
All events listed above are free, and no prior experience is required for most programs. For the latest updates, registration details, and schedules, visit https://recreation.gocrimson.com.
We look forward to welcoming you back — and seeing you move, connect, and thrive this semester.
