Discover ASU’s Ultimate and Underrated Wellness Destination

By Talia Williams

Every semester brings new classes, goals and opportunities. Whether you are returning to campus or beginning your college career at Arizona State University (ASU), the start of the new semester is the perfect time to establish a routine that supports your well-being.

Prioritizing your health isn’t always easy. As coursework, deadlines and responsibilities pile up, taking care of yourself can often become an afterthought.

That’s why building healthy habits can set you up for success far beyond the classroom.

Fortunately, ASU offers a variety of resources to help students, faculty, staff and community members prioritize wellness. One of the most unique spaces on campus also happens to be one of the best places to get moving.

Mountain America Stadium, home to the ASU Sun Devils, is more than just a hub for game-day excitement.

With multiple bleacher sections, stair climbs, pull-up bars and a spacious walkable concourse, this stadium provides a striking setting for a wide range of wellness activities, including pickleball and basketball.

Why movement matters

The connection between physical activity and mental health has been well established through years of research.

Even small amounts of movement can make a difference. Improving your posture, taking a 15-minute walk, or stepping away from your desk can help boost energy and sharpen concentration.

This practice becomes crucial when tasks and assignments start to accumulate.

Judith Karshmer, ASU Chief Wellness Officer and Dean of the Edson College of Nursing and Health Innovation, says there’s no one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to movement.

“What works for one person may not work for another. The key is to find something that fits into your lifestyle and that you like doing. If you enjoy it, you’re more likely to keep showing up, even when the motivation isn’t there. And over time, that consistency is what helps build long-term mental and physical health.”

The phrase “log off and get outside” may often be used jokingly, but it has a lot of truth in it.

Simply taking your lunch outside has been linked to lowering your allostatic load (the wear and tear on the body) and improving your mood.

Research shows that outdoor dining reduces stress hormones by over 20% in just 20-30 minutes while natural light boosts mood-enhancing serotonin production.

Small changes to your day can leave you feeling refreshed, focused and ready to tackle the rest of your day.

Wellness starts where you are

Starting your fitness journey doesn't require gym memberships or expensive wellness subscriptions.

For many, training for Pat’s Run can be a simple way to get started. It’s an unparalleled opportunity to stay fit while also connecting with the community and fellow veterans.

Matt Schmidt, Development & Strategic Partnerships Director for Pat Tillman Veterans Center and U.S. Coast Guard Veteran can attest to this.

“Physical fitness is familiar territory for veterans, making access to the stadium an extraordinary opportunity for student veterans to build resilience, strengthen community, and challenge themselves in a one-of-a-kind setting.”

Thankfully, Mountain America Stadium offers a distinctive environment that fosters connection and perseverance.

Beginning September 8, 2026, students, faculty, staff and community members can enjoy free access to self-guided fitness activities Tuesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Whether you're looking for a quick workout between classes or a new study break location, the stadium's open hours make it easy to implement healthier practices into your schedule.

This semester, the ASU 365 Community Union team is providing several ways to stay active, including:

Climb “A Mountain” Challenge: Take on the stadium stairs for a heart-pumping workout while enjoying panoramic views.
Inferno Track: One lap around the concourse is approximately 0.4 miles. Complete two and a half (2.5) laps to reach a full mile, whether you are walking, running or jogging.
Beaver Fit Box: Use high-quality gym equipment for a full-body workout.
Forks Up Pull-up Bars: Test your body strength with the five pull-up bars at varying heights.
Devils Core Station: This is your chance to sculpt the perfect abs/body you've always wanted. Take advantage of built-in incline benches for crunches, sit-ups and other core exercises.
Movement Breaks: Stop by between classes to study in the bleachers, attend a remote class, take a meeting or enjoy the stadium atmosphere.

Coming soon to the stadium, Rez Geometry: A Court of Nations will feature a multi-use court with a half-basketball court and full pickleball court, offering even more ways to play. Designed by artist Elias Jade Not Afraid, the court's geometric appearance is inspired by traditional Native American rug and basket-weave designs and his time playing "rez ball" with his cousins on the reservation.

Available Thursday through Saturday, guests can grab a basketball and check up with friends on the half-basketball court. Every Tuesday and Wednesday, the same court transforms into a full pickleball court, where guests put on their game face and rack up 11 points for the win.

By removing barriers to fitness, the initiative helps make healthy movement an opportunity that’s available to everyone, regardless of your experience or fitness level.

Your semester challenge

This semester, challenge yourself to try something new. Instead of heading straight to your next class or spending every break sitting indoors, stop by Mountain America Stadium during open wellness hours.

Your overall health is just as important as your academic success — and sometimes the best way to reset your mind is to exercise.

You may discover a new favorite study spot or a new tradition with your roommate. It all starts by taking that first step inside Mountain America Stadium.

Visit asu365communityunion.com/wellness for more information about open stadium hours and wellness initiatives.

You got this, Sun Devils!