Ohio University students have three opportunities to channel their inner goblins and ghouls with the Department of Campus Recreation’s three upcoming Halloween-themed fitness events. Students can get fit and spooky for free at two of the activities, and can pay a small fee to compete in a creepy, crawly climbing competition.

“We recognize that Halloween is a very popular holiday for Ohio University students, and we want to provide fun, positive activities for students to participate in,” Joe Schillero, assistant director of fitness, said.

Campus Rec kicks off its Halloween festivities at 5 pm. Friday, Oct. 27, with its annual Halloween Climbing Competition. The event will be held at Outdoor Pursuits’ indoor climbing wall at the Ping Recreation Center and will include three divisions of competition – beginner, intermediate and advanced. Participants are encourage to wear their Halloween costume as the event will include a costume contest completed with prizes. 

Judd Walker, assistant director for Outdoor Pursuits, said the Halloween Climbing Competition is a good way to build Athens’ climbing community. “This is also an engaging event for out-of-town visitors for the weekend,” he added.

Early registration for the Halloween Climbing Competition costs $15 while day-of registration will be $30. Food will be provided. For more information or to register, click here. 

Campus Rec is also offering two free Halloween-themed fitness events – Club Cycle Halloween Edition and Zombie Zumbathon.

Club Cycle Halloween Edition is scheduled for 6:15 to 7:15 p.m. Monday, Oct. 30, in the Ping Center’s Group Fitness Room. Participants will cycle to club music at this Halloween-themed party. For more information, click here. 

Zombie Zumbathon will be held from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 31, in Ping Center Area A. This Zombie-inspired Zumba class will feature Halloween music, and participants are encouraged to wear Halloween costumes appropriate for a Zumba class. For more information, click here.  

“Halloween can be a really fun holiday, and free activities that leave you feeling positive and de-stressed are a great way to enjoy it,” said Schillero. “It’s also a great opportunity to try out Group Fitness if you haven’t before.”

For more information on these events and all of Campus Rec’s facilities and fitness programs, click here.