Women’s Recreation Night Bridges Empowerment And Fun
A night of wellness and connection, where fun, fitness, and friendship thrived.
The Women’s History Month Planning Committee at the University of the Pacific describes the annual celebration as a series of activities that recognize and honor women’s contributions to history, culture, and society. In celebration of International Women's Day, Pacific Recreation partnered with the Center for Identity and Inclusion to host Women’s Rec Night on March 4.
An Instagram post by the Pacific Recreation account announced the event on February 25, highlighting an exciting opportunity for the campus community. The post detailed that on March 4, from 5:00 to 7:00 PM, the Baun Fitness Center would offer exclusive access to all women, women-identifying, and non-binary students, faculty, and staff. This initiative reflects a growing movement to facilitate a safe, supportive, and empowering space where participants can explore new fitness routines and work out alongside other women. The event promised a variety of activities, including Tiger X Group fitness classes and engaging experiences like the rock-climbing tower. As an added incentive, the first 30 attendees to arrive would receive a wellness bag filled with goodies.
As the night unfolded, recreation staff hosted a plank challenge, drawing participation from over 20 students eager to test their endurance for a chance to win ankle weight straps. Student Iliana emerged victorious, setting a personal record of 5 minutes and 40 seconds, far surpassing the initial benchmark of 2 minutes and solidifying her dominance in the competition.
Women moved between treadmills and weight racks, enjoying their time in the space. In one intersection, a high-intensity workout class pushed participants through their final reps, and across the gym, a group cheered on their friend as she climbed her personal best height on the rock tower. Suddenly, a loud crash echoed in the middle of the event due to a barbell slipping from someone’s grip. Heads turned as a recreation staff rushed over, checking on the woman who had dropped it. She laughed it off, assuring everyone she was fine, but the moment served as a reminder of the supportive atmosphere Pacific Recreation and the Center for Identity and Inclusion encouraged.
"I felt this event was especially important for our community during this time of uncertainty. The gym is part of my daily routine, but the atmosphere at Women’s Rec Night felt completely different, it was more vibrant and empowering." - Jessie Morel, ‘28 (Undeclared)
The events for Women’s History Month do not end here, throughout March events revolving around food and drink, diversity, equity, and inclusion, award ceremonies, and workshops are occurring. Check out the list of events here!