Health and Fitness College Rankings

Hi, everyone! I was wondering if there are any known rankings focused on the 'fit' lifestyle of college students? I value a healthy and fit community and it would be a major plus if I could find schools with similar values. Thank you!

While there isn't an official ranking system that solely evaluates the 'fit' lifestyle of college students, there are certain metrics and elements you may want to consider when thinking about the overall healthy and fit community of a university. Colleges differ vastly in how much they promote and accommodate a healthy lifestyle, so you might have to do a little research.

One thing to look at is the recreational and fitness facilities that the university offers. State-of-the-art fitness centers, variety in group fitness classes, availability of nutrition guidance, and intramural and club sports are great indicators of a college's commitment to student health and fitness.

You can also look into the availability and variety of healthy dining options on campus. Many universities offer diet-specific menu options and employ dietitians to assist students with nutritional needs.

Another interesting factor to consider is the campus layout and the city's overall walkability or biking facilities. Schools in locations where walking or biking are the norm might promote a more active lifestyle.

While no official ranking list may exist for this specific topic, The Princeton Review does include rankings for "Best Health Services" and "Best Athletic Facilities". Additionally, some publications like Men's Health have, in the past, compiled lists of fittest colleges which take into account fitness and recreation center offerings, nutrition, athletic funding, and the quality and accessibility of healthcare services.

Remember, these are just some factors to consider and it's equally, if not more, important to find a school that aligns with your academic and career objectives too. You'd be surprised at how many universities out there appreciate the value of a healthy, active lifestyle and facilitate it for their students.