Students Celebrate Heart Awareness Month at Open Gym Volleyball
Author Anna Fain is a Baking and Pastry Arts major.
Looking for a way to meet new people, blow off steam, and stay active? Our campus hosts open gym volleyball tournaments almost every Monday night. And during Heart Awareness Month, it’s the perfect reminder that movement matters for both your body and your heart.
Heart Awareness Month, which is observed every February, is dedicated to raising awareness about cardiovascular disease—which is the leading cause of death in the United States. This month encourages people to adapt heart healthy habits like regular exercise, stress management, balanced nutrition, and regular checkups. Even small lifestyle changes can make an impactful difference over the course of time.
Whether you’re a seasoned player or someone who has never touched a ball, these events are designed to include everyone. Our free play/open gym format is all about creating a relaxed, welcoming environment so students can jump in a game with no added pressure. There are no brackets or intense rivalries, just students that came together for good energy, teamwork, and lots of fun, all while getting their hearts pumping.
Regular physical activity is one of the best ways to support heart health, reduce stress, and boost mental well-being. Activities like open gym volleyball make it easy to stay active without the stress of competition, plus it’s a great way to connect with people outside of the kitchens and classrooms! You can meet and learn about new students, build friendships, and experience the campus community in a new light.
Whether you come solo or with a group of friends, you will quickly feel like part of the action. So, grab your sneakers and knee pads and bring your energy down to the Student Recreation Center gym! This is Heart Health Awareness Month, show up, move your body, and serve up some energy—your heart will thank you.
Discover More Ways to Stay Active at CIA
Learn more about other athletic activities offered here!