University of San Diego Magazine - Fall 2025

WELL NESS RE DEFINED Opened in April, the three-story, 80,000 square-foot facility is redefining campus wellness. Students do more than work out — they move with purpose, rest intentionally, connect meaningfully, learn continuously and nourish their minds, bodies and spirits. The center is organized around five pillars of wellness — movement, nourishment, restoration, community and connection, and learning. Together, the spaces and programming create a vibrant hub where students thrive academically, socially and personally. By Matthew Piechalak At USD’s Palomar Health Student Wellness Center, wellness isn’t just a routine — it’s a lifestyle, a place where students are learning how to be the best versions of themselves.

MOVEMENT

our muscles, we’re developing a profound connection between our mind and body, which can lead to increased confidence, reduced stress and a strong sense of self.” The wellness center is intentionally designed to be a hub for diverse types of movement. “The goal is to provide a space where every student, regardless of their background or fitness level, can find a form of movement that resonates with them,” he said. From the strength floor and cardio rooms for structured, goal-oriented exercises, to features like the outdoor turf space for more creative, free-flowing movement, the center runs the gamut on what is possible. Beyond individual workouts, group fitness studios and specialized programming are essential to building community within the center.

Reframing movement — from just exercise for fitness and appearance to a holistic approach to wellness — is essential to building individuals who are not only strong, but who are also capable and resilient. “When we think about physical activity, the conversation around fitness is frequently dominated by aesthetics,” said Interim Assistant Director of Fitness Programs Reynaldo Martorell. “But what if we shifted our focus from how we look to how we move? What if the true measure of wellness wasn’t a number on a scale, but the freedom and mastery of our own bodies?” This shifting mindset can be beneficial for everyone — especially college students — who face both academic and social pressures, Martorell explained. “Body awareness leads to an increase in movement quality. We are not just training

“Ultimately, focusing on movement is about empowering students to live fuller, more vibrant lives,” Martorell said. “It’s about giving them the physical capacity to pursue their dreams and to engage in activities that go far beyond the confines of a gym. It’s about building a body that can carry them through a lifetime of adventure.” A key element of this movement-centric approach for anyone is to view it as a way to add to your life, rather than just taking things away, he said. “The key is to find what you love and then train your body to do it even better,” Martorell said. “When your movement goals are tied to activities you genuinely enjoy, you’re far more likely to stay motivated. There’s an incredible sense of accomplishment that comes from seeing tangible improvements in a skill you care about.”

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