Exercise is Medicine- On Campus

Exercise Is Medicine At SRU

Exercise is Medicine on Campus (EIM-OC) is a initiative for universities and colleges to promote physical activity as a vital sign of health. Slippery Rock University has partnered with the student health center to assess physical activity at every student health visit. SRU healthcare providers refer students to senior level exercise science interns/graduate assistants for an individualized exercise prescription. The EIM program at SRU is designed to assist others in their wellness journey whether or not they are exercising, have exercised in the past, or have never exercised.

The EIM referral systems at SRU allows for individuals to participate in a free six-week exercise program. During this six-weeks, the exercise science intern/graduate assistant will meet with each individual for two-one hour exercise sessions each week, providing indivudualized exercise prescriptions, as well as goal setting and motivational strategies tailored to specific needs. SRU encourages and promotes physical activity as well as developing healthy behaviors for individuals throughout the university and surrounding community to achieve a better overall well-being. Exercise looks different for every person. Your trainer will help you discover what type of exercise benefits you the most as well as what is most enjoyable for you.

Benefits of Exercise 

Exercise is Medicine promotes the concept that exercise and physical activity benefits health and prevents the onset of physical diseases and mental health issues. Regular physical activity leads to higher academic performance, improves overall mood and energy levels, promotes better sleep, and reduces stress and anxiety. The Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans recommends that adults get at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity per week.

SRU is a Leader in Exercise Is Medicine

Gold Level Recognition

Slippery Rock University is an officially registered Exercise is Medicine on Campus program and has earned Gold Level Recognition. Gold level recognition has been earned through the partnership of campus helath proffessionals and the exercise science program to recognize physical activity as a vital sign and implement a referral system for exercise prescription. SRU EIM program has recently expanded to accept referrals for exercise programs from physicians in the local community. Additionally, our EIM-OC exercise science interns/graduate assistants create campus and community educational opportunities on physical activity and support options for exercise on campus.

Interested In Participating?

The Exercise Is Medicine program is open and available for individuals in and around the campus community. Individuals who are looking to increase their knowledge and experience in exercise, develop goals and motivations, and work on a healthier well-being, this program could be for you. Participants will be trained by a graduate assistant or intern in a one-on-one session, tailored specifically for them. If you are intersted in this program and would like to join or ask any questions, you may contact any of our SRU Leadership team below.

Client Testimonials

"I have been able to lower my blood pressure and lose weight. I have become way more confident in myself and my body. Some positive changes I have seen are that I have a healthier outlook on life, have become less tired, and have gained self esteem."
"I wanted to to become more comfortable at the gym and reduce my stress and anxiety levels. I have been able to accomplish through my time with my trainer in this program. I have also noticed a more positive mood, more energy, and I have learned exercises that I actually enjoy doing."
"I enjoy going to the gym more now because I am more knowledgable and I can tell that I have gotten stronger due to this program."
"In my time in this program I have developed a better sleep schedule, better eating habits, have had more energy throughout the day, and have been able to lose wight."
"I have become more comfortable with different equipment and have gained muscular strength and endurance."

SRU Leadership Team

Advisor

Joy Urda, Ph.D., Associate Professor

Email address: joyan.urda@sru.edu

Co-Advisor

Steven Verba, Ph.D., Associate Professor

Email Address: steven.verba@sru.edu

Student Health Center Director

Kristina Benkeser CRNP, MSN

Director Student Health and Wellness

Director Student Health Services

EIM Graduate Assistant

Megan Dagostino