A student leads a blance class for senior community members for the Wellness Elevated program.

Recreation, Exercise, and Sport Science

Wellness Elevated

Exercise with Purpose

Wellness Elevated is a hands-on learning opportunity of Western Colorado University’s Recreation, Exercise & Sport Science program. The program empowers students to take what they are learning in the classroom- particularly in movement, nutrition, and holistic wellness- into real-world practice by partnering with individuals in the Gunnison community facing clinical challenges. By working side by side with the community, students build real skills and lasting connections that prepare them for meaningful careers in health, wellness, and rehabilitation.

A student takes a community member's blood pressure.

Student & Community Impact

As a student in this program, you’ll work alongside experienced clinical exercise physiologists who help guide you and bring a high level of expertise to every session. You’ll see firsthand how specialized care helps clients prevent or manage health challenges, regain confidence, and improve their overall quality of life. Learn how to educate and empower people to make lasting lifestyle changes- giving you practical skills and insights you can carry into your future career.

A student takes the blood pressure of a patient.

Establishing a Baseline and Goals

Wellness Elevated begins with a personalized consultation to identify each participant’s limitations, goals, and specific needs. A full series of assessments, including graded exercise testing as well as flexibility, strength, and balance evaluations, provides a clear starting point and tracks progress throughout the program. From there, participants receive an individualized exercise prescription, ongoing monitoring, and education on health and fitness topics to support long-term wellness.

Aspen walks with Bernie Goldberg during a six minute walk test as a part of Wellness Elevated.

Develop Real-World Skills

Instead of just studying theories, you’ll design and lead programs that support clients with diverse goals and needs. This hands-on experience not only strengthens your leadership and communication skills but also gives you a clear picture of the impact you can make in the health and wellness field. The practical knowledge you’ll gain will help build your resume and look great for employers or grad school!

Joining Wellness Elevated as a Client

Wellness Elevated helps you improve health, regain confidence, and reach your wellness goals with guidance from experienced clinical exercise physiologists and students. The program combines personalized care with practical tools to make healthy habits a lasting part of your life.

Hours & Dates
Cost
Contact

Our program operates around the academic calendar (semester start and end dates) due to its dual purpose of providing both student learning opportunities as well as medical continuum of care.

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New Client: $250/semester

Returning Client: $200/semester

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Wellness Elevated
Western Colorado University, HAP Lab
1 Western Way
Gunnison, CO 81231

Office phone: 970.943.2179
Office fax: 970.943.7125

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Make an Impact with Wellness Elevated

Wellness Elevated is a key part of Western’s Recreation, Exercise & Sport Science program, letting you take what you learn in class and use it in real-world situations. By working directly with community members facing health challenges, you’ll build hands-on skills, make meaningful connections, and get ready for a career in health, wellness, or rehabilitation.

Here are just a few of the opportunities students have explored through Wellness Elevated:

  • Conducting initial consultations and health assessments to establish client goals

  • Designing and implementing individualized exercise prescriptions

  • Monitoring client progress in areas such as strength, balance, and flexibility

  • Educating participants on fitness, health, and wellness best practices

  • Collaborating with faculty mentors and community partners to deliver impactful programs

A exercise and sport science student assists two community members in a fitness exercise.

Make a difference in the community.

With Wellness Elevated, you’ll turn your passion for health into real-world experience that changes lives. In Western’s Recreation, Exercise & Sport Science Department, you’ll study movement, nutrition, and wellness while working directly with community members in a supportive, hands-on environment. See how you can prepare for a purpose-driven career when you visit campus.

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