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New Year, New Goals: Best Places to Get Fit in Town!

February 3, 2025 | Courtney Russell

By: Ella Yorn ’27

New year, new you! As 2025 starts, many people have the same goal to create a healthier lifestyle. Even if you are already keeping up with your wellness and physical fitness routine, there are many Oxford gems that you may not know about!

A charming town in the Midwest, Oxford, Ohio, may surprise you with the amount of unique places to exercise in the community. Whether you prefer classes, strength training, or outdoor activities, there is something for everyone here. We have accumulated a list of the best places to get your sweat on and become the best version of yourself in the new year:

Hiking and walking trails in Oxford, Ohio.
Trails in Oxford. 

Oxford Area Trails

Oxford is home to miles and miles of trails that stretch throughout the entire campus and connect to trails further into town. Currently being developed by the community, there is a new Phase 5 of trails connecting both Talawanda High School and Middle School. The new path will add more than two miles of additional trail.

Pickleball

Both in town and on campus, there are several pickleball courts that are easily accessible. On Miami’s Oxford campus, the courts are located behind Cook Field, across the street from McBride Hall. In town, pickleball courts can be found at Oxford Parks and Recreation, located behind Kroger. 

Intramural Sports

Miami’s intramural sports teams offer students a great opportunity to get involved and compete against classmates in a friendly environment. Choose from a wide variety of sports — volleyball, table tennis, soccer, and more! 

Swimming

Check out the Corwin M. Nixon Aquatic Center, a world-class facility for swimming laps or swimming events throughout the year. 

Students enjoying a workout at Lewis Place at Miami University.
Students enjoying a workout at Lewis Place.

Fitness Classes

At the recreation center, Miami offers a wide variety of fitness classes, from cycling to ballet sculpting. These classes are held all throughout the week at various times to fit your schedule! In addition to the recreation center, Oxford Community Yoga Center, which is located on South College Avenue, also offers yoga and meditation classes. President Gregory P. Crawford loves to support community wellness at Miami by hosting M.O.V.E. outdoor boot camps in his backyard at Lewis Place.  

Off-Campus Gyms

While our recreation center is amazing, it can be nice to change things up as well. Prime Fitness in Oxford is located on South College Avenue. This smaller exercise center has amenities, such as showers, a sauna, and a steam room. Another exercise spot is Anytime Fitness, located on College Corner Pike. It is open 24/7 and often runs specials on discounted memberships. 

Smaller Gyms at Miami

In addition to Miami’s main recreation center, North Quad Fitness Center and the Clawson Fitness Center are available for student use as well. The North Quad Fitness Center is located underneath Martin Dining Hall and has 2,500 square feet of exercise space, while Clawson is located in Clawson Hall 440.

Miami University students working at gym on campus.
Student lifting weights. 

Miami University encourages students to stay healthy and promotes Exercise is Medicine on Campus, a national program that teaches students how movement is vital to maintaining good health. Take advantage of the fabulous wellness resources our local community and campus have provided us to boost your health. 

Cheers to the new year and happy exercising!