While summer often signals a slowdown on college campuses, Paradise Valley Community College is ramping things up with a wide range of wellness-focused programs designed to keep students, employees, and community members moving, motivated, and connected. From friendly fitness competitions to online resources and affordable gym memberships, PVCC’s approach to wellness is as inclusive as it is inspiring.
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Summer Fitness Challenge
At the heart of PVCC’s summer wellness programming is the Employee Wellness/Summer Fitness Challenge, an 11-week initiative hosted by the PVCC Fitness Center. The challenge is packed with weekly activities like the Wall Sit Contest, Push-Up Challenge, and Rowing Sprints, all aimed at promoting physical health in a fun, encouraging environment.Participants earn points throughout the summer to win prizes such as Harkins VIP movie passes and gift cards to the local café Cortado BC.
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Mount Everest Jacob’s Ladder Challenge
Another standout event is the Mount Everest Jacob’s Ladder Challenge, where participants collectively “climb” the height of Mount Everest (29,032 feet) by logging their Jacob’s Ladder steps over the summer. This creative challenge brings together faculty, staff, students, and community members in a shared mission that emphasizes both movement and unity.
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Self-Guided Wellness Resources
Recognizing that summer often comes with more flexible schedules, PVCC also promotes self-guided wellness tools for students who want to stay engaged off-campus. The college regularly shares online meditation videos, virtual fitness classes, and mental health resources through newsletters and digital platforms.Free apps that promote habit-building and mindfulness are also highlighted, offering students practical tools they can use anytime, anywhere.
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Fitness Center Access for Faculty, Staff, and Students
For just $25 per semester, PVCC employees and enrolled students can access the Fitness Center year-round. The space features a wide range of equipment, from strength training machines to cardio equipment and functional training tools.Employees also receive up to three free personal training sessions, making it easy to get started or stay on track with wellness goals.
The Employee Summer Fitness Challenge is designed specifically for staff, emphasizing low-pressure, inclusive participation that welcomes all fitness levels.
Open to the Community
PVCC is proud to be a wellness resource not only for its students and staff but for the broader community as well. Students enrolled in at least one credit can join the Fitness Center for the same $25 fee. Additionally, PVCC partners with popular health insurance fitness programs including SilverSneakers, Silver&Fit, and Active&Fit, ensuring affordable access for older adults and eligible community members.
Even when traditional academic activity slows, the Fitness Center remains open Monday through Saturday all summer, making it a consistent hub for health and fitness. PVCC also fosters campus-wide engagement with Wellness Walks, Wellness Scavenger Hunts, and ongoing discounts at Cortado BC for employees.
Whether you're on campus for classes, working behind the scenes, or just looking for ways to stay active, PVCC’s wellness programs are here to support you—this summer and every season. Fitness hours are Monday through Thursday, 5:30 a.m. to 8 p.m., Friday, 5:30 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Saturday, 7 a.m. to 2 p.m., closed Sunday. To learn more about the PVCC Fitness Center and wellness resources, visit our website.