Clemson University Staff Senate

Move More, Feel Better: Group Fitness at Fike

Looking for a fun way to stay active, reduce stress, and connect with others on campus? Fike Recreation Center offers a variety of group fitness classes throughout the week that are open to all members.

Whether you’re new to fitness or have years of experience, our instructors create a welcoming environment for participants of all fitness levels. Every exercise can be modified to meet individual needs and abilities, allowing you to work at a pace that feels right for you.

For employees seeking lower-impact options, Pilates, yoga, barre, and cycling offer excellent opportunities to improve strength, flexibility, balance, and cardiovascular health while minimizing impact on the joints. These classes are especially adaptable and can accommodate a wide range of fitness levels.

If you’re looking for a higher-energy workout, Fike also offers dance-based classes that combine fitness and fun. Classes such as Werk It, Cardio Dance, and HIIT the Dancefloor provide an upbeat atmosphere and a great way to get your heart rate up while enjoying music and movement.

We encourage Clemson employees to take advantage of these opportunities to prioritize wellness, increase physical activity, and experience the supportive community that group fitness provides.

Here’s a link to our updated class schedule. Classes held at Fike are orange. This schedule will be kept updated online. Group Fitness Schedule Link Take the first step toward a healthier, more active lifestyle by joining a class this week. Whether you prefer mindful movement, strength-building exercises, energizing cycling sessions, or dance-focused workouts, Fike Recreation Center has something for everyone. We look forward to seeing you in class!

Females dancing in room

Participate in 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb Events

As Clemson University prepares to mark the 25th anniversary of September 11, the campus community will have two meaningful opportunities to come together in remembrance, reflection, and gratitude. Through dual 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb events, Clemson students, employees, and community members are invited to honor the lives lost on September 11, 2001, while recognizing the courage and sacrifice of first responders who answered the call that day and continue to serve today.

The first event, hosted by Clemson’s Military and Veteran Engagement office, will take place at Littlejohn Coliseum. Centered around the theme “110 Floors of Resolve; 25 Years Later, Clemson Remembers,” the memorial stair climb serves as a powerful tribute to the firefighters who climbed the 110 stories of the World Trade Center towers to save lives. Participants will symbolically take on that challenge by climbing the Coliseum stairs, reflecting on the determination, bravery, and selflessness demonstrated in the face of unimaginable adversity.

The Littlejohn event is open to Clemson students, faculty, staff, alumni, and members of the public. Registration begins at 7:30 a.m., with the program starting promptly at 8:30 a.m. Attendees who are unable to climb stairs are encouraged to participate by walking the concourse, ensuring that everyone can be part of this important day of remembrance. Organizers also encourage participants to bring thank-you cards for first responders, which will be delivered to local emergency personnel following the event.

In addition to remembering those who lost their lives on 9/11, the event will honor the dedicated professionals who continue to protect and serve communities every day, including members of the Clemson University Police Department, Clemson Fire Department, and Clemson Emergency Medical Services.

The Eventbrite link for this event is:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/911-memorial-stair-climb-at-clemson-university-tickets-1991781045725.

A second memorial stair climb will be held in Fike Recreation Center, offering another way for the Clemson community to participate. Using the facility’s stair-climb machines, participants can complete their climb while reflecting on the significance of the anniversary and the enduring legacy of service and sacrifice associated with September 11. This event provides a flexible fitness-focused option for those who may prefer a gym setting while still taking part in the shared mission of remembrance.

Sign up for this event here:
https://www.clemsoncampusrec.com/Program/GetProgramDetails?courseId=6f0a374a-9394-468c-9ab9-3e56829166d6.

Together, these events demonstrate Clemson’s commitment to honoring the memory of the nearly 3,000 lives lost on September 11 and paying tribute to the first responders whose heroism inspired a nation. Twenty-five years later, the lessons of courage, resilience, and unity remain as relevant as ever.

Invest in Your Well-Being This Summer

Join Clemson University Campus Recreation on Wednesday, July 16, from 1:00–3:00 p.m. for a comprehensive Well-Being Workshop designed to help participants strengthen their personal well-being and cultivate happiness—two indispensable components of a fulfilling life. During this interactive session, attendees will explore how principles of well-being can enhance wellness in personal, group, and professional settings. The workshop includes a classroom presentation and two personal self-assessments, allowing participants to leave with a greater understanding of their own wellness and practical strategies for incorporating the eight dimensions of well-being into daily life. The workshop will be held in the Andy Quattlebaum Outdoor Education Center, Multipurpose Room B (second floor) and is open to all participants with no membership required.

Clemson University Campus Recreation is committed to supporting the well-being of our campus community through meaningful programs, educational opportunities, and experiences that promote healthy lifestyles. As we look ahead to the fall semester, we encourage faculty and staff to watch for the Well-Being Calendar featured in the Campus Recreation Newsletter. The calendar will highlight a variety of opportunities designed to foster physical, emotional, social, environmental, and spiritual well-being throughout the academic year.

Upcoming offerings will include gatherings at the firepit that encourage social connection and appreciation of the natural environment; a guided aromatherapy workshop where participants can create a custom blend to take home ($10 fee); and nature walks at the South Carolina Botanical Garden held twice monthly. Additional programs will include mindfulness sessions featuring Tibetan sound bowls, reflective journaling workshops, sunrise and sunset yoga by the lake, vision board creation and goal-setting events, and Mindfulness on the Water, which combines outdoor recreation with intentional reflection and relaxation.

Campus Recreation is also excited to continue welcoming Seth, the comfort dog, to campus throughout the academic year. Seth will be available to visit with students on the first day of classes, as well as during midterms and finals, providing comfort, stress relief, and a friendly face during some of the semester’s busiest times.

Whether you are looking to learn new wellness strategies, connect with others, spend more time outdoors, or simply take a pause from a busy schedule, Clemson Campus Recreation’s well-being programs offer something for everyone. We look forward to helping our campus community thrive throughout the coming year.

Summer Hours at the Gym: A Great Time for Faculty and Staff to Recharge

With students away for the summer, Clemson staff and faculty have a golden window to enjoy the gym with a little more elbow room and a quieter atmosphere. Think of it as the gym’s “off-season advantage”.

Summer Operating Hours

June and July Hours

  • Weekdays: 6:30 a.m. to 8 p.m.
  • Saturday and Sunday: Noon to 8 p.m.

There are a few adjustments and closures during June and July, and they can be found here.

Whether you’re fitting in a lunchtime workout, getting back into a fitness routine or just enjoying the rare luxury of not waiting for equipment, summer is one of the best times for employees to make the most of the gym.

After all, while students are away… the employees can play. 💪

CORE Launches Summer Pilot Program for Staff and Faculty Outdoor Adventures

This summer, Campus Outdoor Recreation and Education (CORE) is charting a new course for community engagement with the launch of a pilot outdoor adventure program designed specifically for faculty and staff. Blending fresh air, gentle adventure, and a dash of campfire nostalgia, the program offers a series of guided trips and activities aimed at fostering connection, wellness, and a shared appreciation for the outdoors.

The Summer 2026 pilot lineup features four unique events, ranging from relaxed lakeside evenings to full-day river excursions:

Friday, June 12 | 6:30 a.m.
Sunrise Paddleboarding
Early risers can greet the day on Lake Hartwell with a guided paddleboarding session launching from the Snow Complex.
Cost: $5 (staff), $10 (guests)
Registration Required: Maximum of 12 participants

Thursday, June 18 | 5:00 p.m.
Paddle and Pies
Participants will paddleboard or kayak from the Snow Complex to the Your Pie Dockside location, combining recreation with a well-earned treat. Cost does not include pizza.
Cost: $5 (staff), $10 (guests)
Registration Required: Maximum of 12 participants

Saturday, July 25 | 9:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Ducks on the Tuck
This full-day adventure takes participants to Dillsboro, North Carolina, for an inflatable kayak or raft trip along the Tuckasegee River.
Cost: $35 (staff), $50 (guests, ages 18+)
Registration Required: Maximum of 15 participants


Participation Details

CORE has designed this pilot program with accessibility in mind:

  • No membership is required to participate in Summer 2026 pilot activities and trips.
  • Campus Recreation memberships and day passes remain optional.
  • The Snow Complex is open to all faculty and staff.
  • A valid parking permit is required for access.

Guests and Children

Participants are welcome to bring guests and children under the following guidelines:

  • All guests and children must be accompanied by a staff member.
  • Minimum age is 7 years old, or participants must be able to properly fit in the smallest available personal flotation device (PFD).

What’s Included

Each trip is designed to be as seamless as it is enjoyable. Participants can expect:

  • All necessary equipment
  • Experienced trip leaders and instruction
  • Transportation for off-site excursions

To Register

Visit Campus Recreation and select ‘Outdoor Pro


With its mix of relaxation and adventure, the CORE summer pilot program invites faculty and staff to step outside, try something new, and connect with colleagues in a refreshing setting. Whether gliding across calm morning waters or sharing stories by a fire pit, this initiative promises a season of memorable experiences just beyond the campus edge.

Spring is Coming, and Andy’s is Calling!

Starting on March 2, Andy’s spring hours begin! With the warm weather on its way we’re switching to our spring hours so you can spend even more time outdoors. Visit us Monday to Friday from noon to 8 p.m. and weekends from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Whether you’re gearing up for a camping trip, grabbing a paddleboard, or trying something
new, we’ve got the equipment to help you make the most of the season.

And don’t forget, the beach remains open from sunrise to sunset, offering the perfect
backdrop for early morning peace or golden-hour adventures.

Come explore, unwind, and enjoy the fresh spring air with us at Andy’s!

Andy Quattlebaum Outdoor Education Center (Andy’s) is in the Snow Family Outdoor Fitness and Wellness Complex beside the lake. Rentals require a membership. Hanging out on the beach does not!

Staff Senate Newsletter: February 2026

In today’s newsletter, Staff Senate President Stacey Miller provides her latest report. Plus, the Staff Senate Golf Tournament is back for another round, the latest Ombuds Report, First Aid/CPR classes from Campus Recreation and more!

First Aid/CPR/AED Classes Available for Staff This Spring

Campus Recreation is offering several opportunities this spring for staff to become certified in First Aid and CPR. No Campus Rec membership is required.

Upcoming February sessions are scheduled for February 26-27, with more class dates available in March and April. These courses equip participants with the knowledge and confidence to respond appropriately during a wide range of medical emergencies, including cardiac arrest, choking, and other life‑threatening situations. Learning how to recognize an emergency, provide immediate care, and coordinate with first responders can make a critical difference in the outcome.

All full CPR certification courses use a blended learning format, which combines online and in‑person training. Participants must complete the assigned online learning modules before the start of the in‑person session at Fike. This allows the classroom portion to focus on hands‑on practice, skill application, and real‑time instructor feedback.

All sessions are held at Fike Recreation Center, making it convenient for staff across campus to attend. You can also book a custom course for your own group, whether it be your office or a team you may be on. For those inquiries, contact Nicole Taylor. Her email is linked below.

For information on registration and available dates, visit the Campus Rec CPR/First Aid training page or email Nicole Taylor.

HIIT the pool: A refreshing way to start your Wednesday

Looking for a fun, low-impact way to boost your fitness midweek? Fike Recreation Center is excited to introduce HIIT the Pool, a new 45-minute interval training class held on the pool deck in the shallow end.

This aquatic workout blends high-intensity intervals with the gentle resistance of water, making it easy on the joints and suitable for most fitness levels. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or just starting out, the exercises are easily modifiable to meet your needs.

Class Details:

  • 🗓 Wednesdays at 8:15 a.m.
  • 📍 Lap pool, shallow end – Fike Recreation Center
  • 👥 15 spots available – registration opens 23 hours before class
  • 🌊 Low-impact, high-energy workout for all demographics
  • 👙 Wear a bathing suit & bring towel and water bottle

And for a perfect post-workout treat, consider adding a relaxing sauna session to your routine. It’s a great way to unwind and reward yourself after a powerful start to your day.

Ready to HIIT the pool? Here’s your link.

Tiger Fitness 101: Helping You Feel at Home in the Gym

Campus Recreation is thrilled to launch a new series of beginner-friendly fitness classes designed to empower students and staff to take charge of their health and wellness with confidence.

Whether you’re stepping into the gym for the first time or just looking to brush up on the basics, Tiger Fitness 101 is here to guide you through the journey. With three classes now available and two more on the way, this series is all about making fitness approachable, inclusive, and fun.

What’s Offered Now:

Intro to Fike

Feeling overwhelmed by the gym? You’re not alone. This class is a gentle introduction to Fike Recreation Center’s many workout spaces. You’ll get a guided tour of the facility, learn what equipment is available, and discover where students and staff typically train. The goal is simple: to help you feel confident walking into the gym and knowing what to do. No experience needed.
Duration: Under 45 minutes

Intro to Strength Training

Ready to lift but not sure where to start? This class breaks down the basics of strength training, including how to use machines, proper form, and how to structure a workout based on your goals. You’ll learn about push, pull, and leg exercises, warm-up techniques, and safety tips like spotting. It’s a great beginner-friendly way to build a strong foundation.
Duration: Under 1 hour 15 minutes

Intro to Cardio

Cardio doesn’t have to be confusing. This class explores different styles of cardio workouts, how to warm up properly, and how to use our many types of equipment. You’ll also learn how to create a training plan that fits your goals, whether that’s general fitness or preparing for a 5K or 10K.
Duration: Under 1 hour 15 minutes

Coming Soon:

  • Intro to At-Home Workouts – Learn how to stay active with minimal equipment, wherever you are.
  • Intro to Recovery and Mobility – Discover techniques to help your body recover and stay flexible between workouts.

How to Join:

Signing up is easy! Just visit Clemson Campus Rec to reserve your spot. Link here.

👟 Pro Tip: Wear comfortable workout clothes and supportive shoes to your class.