Promoting Wellness and Experiential Learning
The University of New Hampshire is committed to fostering a healthy and active campus community. Through the Department of Kinesiology – Exercise Science, faculty and staff are invited to participate in two complementary initiatives designed to support employee wellness while providing valuable experiential learning opportunities for students.
Employee Fitness Center - *New Facility Fall 2025*
The Employee Fitness Center provides all UNH faculty and staff with complimentary access to a fully equipped fitness facility located in Putnam Hall. The new 1,600 square foot space includes a range of cardiovascular, strength, and functional training equipment in a convenient on-campus location with ample parking.
Facility Highlights:
- Treadmills, ellipticals, stair climbers, rowers, and stationary bicycles.
- Nautilus strength stations, free weights, and functional training equipment.
- Space dedicated to flexibility, balance, and core training.
Hours of Operation (Academic Year):
- Monday–Friday: 6:00–8:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m.–6:30 p.m.
- Closed 8:00–11:00 a.m. for Exercise Science instruction.
Winter and Summer Break Hours:
- Reduced scheduling on Monday/Wednesday/Fridays
No application is required to access the Employee Fitness Center; you must complete enrollment through your UNH email.
Employee Fitness Program (EFP)
The Employee Fitness Program offers UNH employees the opportunity to engage in a structured, evidence-based health and fitness program directed by senior Exercise Science students. Under the supervision of faculty, students provide individualized assessment and exercise prescription services, allowing employees to pursue their wellness goals while contributing to student education.
Program Components:
- Baseline health and fitness testing in the late fall semester, including cardiovascular fitness, body composition, blood pressure, and related measures.
- A personalized exercise plan designed and implemented by an Exercise Science student.
- Regular one-on-one sessions to support adherence and monitor progress.
- Comprehensive follow-up assessments in the spring semester.
Enrollment Details:
- Space is limited; enrollment begins August 15 annually.
- Priority is given to first-time participants.
If you are interested in the Employee Fitness Program, please fill out the application here and email it to Aurora.Vellante@unh.edu
History of the Program
The UNH Employee Fitness Center (EFC) was established in 1988 with support from the President’s Office and the Department of Physical Education’s Exercise Physiology faculty. The program quickly gained popularity—over 250 employees expressed interest in the first year, and 100 participants were selected by lottery. Since then, roughly 100 new employees have participated each year. In 1995, the facility moved to the Field House Balcony where it grew for 30 years. New in 2025 the Employee Fitness Center has been moved to its new updated space in Putnam Hall. To date, more than 2,300 UNH faculty and staff have benefited from the program.
Benefits to the UNH Community
- For employees: convenient access to high-quality fitness resources and personalized support to pursue health and wellness goals.
- For students: hands-on professional training in assessment, exercise prescription, and client interaction.
- For the institution: a model of integrated wellness and education that strengthens the university community.
Through these initiatives, UNH underscores its commitment to employee well-being while advancing the professional preparation of Exercise Science students.
