Fitness and Friendship Written by Susan Meredith

Meet Rachel, Our UK Campus Recreation Member of the Month!

We are thrilled to introduce Rachel as our Campus Recreation Member of the Month! Rachel, a dedicated UK Healthcare staff member at the Markey Cancer Center, has become an active member of the UK Campus Recreation community. 

Like many faculty and staff members at the University of Kentucky, she makes full use of the state-of-the-art facilities at the Johnson Center. Rachel has found her stride in Cycle and Les Mills Body Pump group fitness classes, both of which are offered as part of our group fitness programs.

Rachel’s commitment to her fitness goals and positive energy have not gone unnoticed. She was nominated by Lindsay Thomayer, the Interim Assistant Director for Fitness at UK Campus Recreation, who praised Rachel for her enthusiasm, focus, and dedication. Lindsay said,

"Over the past year, seeing Rachel consistently attend and push herself in Body Pump classes has been truly inspiring. She embodies the idea that 'consistency is key.' As an instructor, it's clear that Rachel is always challenging herself—whether it's increasing her weights or striving to improve her form. What’s truly remarkable is how she’s built a circle of friends who push one another to achieve their best. Rachel is a source of positivity in class, and I hope others can look up to her as an example of dedication and growth in their own fitness journeys. She has truly found her community in the studio, and she radiates that same energy to everyone around her."

For Rachel, fitness is about more than just physical health—it’s about building meaningful connections and holding each other accountable. As a regular participant in our group fitness classes, Rachel believes in the power of friendships to stay motivated. She shares, “For the past year my friends and I have supported and shown up for each other going to classes at the Johnson Center. It’s a wonderful feeling and I am so grateful!”

Rachel’s story underscores the importance of both fitness and friendship in achieving long-term health goals. With her focus on group fitness and a supportive fitness community, she exemplifies how the UK Campus Recreation facilities help people reach their wellness goals while fostering a sense of belonging. As she says, “I get FIT with a little help from my friends!”

At UK Campus Recreation, we are proud to spotlight individuals like Rachel, who inspire others to stay active and healthy. Congratulations to Rachel for being named Member of the Month! We look forward to seeing her continue to thrive as part of our vibrant fitness community at the Johnson Center.