Physical Education, Recreation, Athletics
rugby player smiling
five women running on College Road
varsity basketball game
fitness class, mostly staff using rebounders
two boats at rowing practice on the Charles
fencing competition
field hockey scrimmage as seen through the back of goal net
flying Frisbee about to be caught by two outstretched hands
yoga instructor with class in background
PERA's mission is to foster a "culture of fitness" for students, faculty and staff at Wellesley College.
We pursue this mission not only because fitness is a key component to a well-rounded liberal arts education, but because recent research shows that regular physical activity enhances memory, improves cognition and problem-solving abilities, and elevates one's overall sense of well-being.
PERA offers three programs for students:
- Physical Education, with classes ranging from Archery to Zumba
- Recreation, with intramurals, dance and sport clubs, walk-in fitness classes, outdoor education, and more
- Athletics, a competitive, intercollegiate sports program with 14 varsity teams
For faculty and staff, PERA supports the Wellness program, which offers a variety of fitness classes for employees, and is an active partner in Wellesley's Healthy You Initiative .
