As campus rec centers look to create more engaging and wellness-focused programming, outdoor fitness has become a popular addition. The University of San Diego embraced this, partnering with BeaverFit to transform unused outdoor space into versatile, dynamic fitness areas to better serve the community.
Kimmel Yeager, the executive director of Wellness at USD, said they’ve been a customer since 2024. The goal of the partnership was to find high-quality outdoor infrastructure that gives students, faculty and staff an inclusive and inviting environment.
Below, Yeager discusses why the department chose BeaverFit, benefits to the campus community and more.
Why did you decide to partner with BeaverFit? What problem were you looking to solve; or what solution were you looking to incorporate?
We were looking for versatile, high-quality outdoor fitness infrastructure that could support both structured programming and informal student use. BeaverFit offered the flexibility, durability and innovative design we needed to activate underutilized outdoor spaces and meet growing demand for open-air wellness experiences.
What are the benefits to your rec department as a result of this partnership?
The BeaverFit infrastructure allowed us to expand our programming footprint in compliment to the indoor spaces we were building at our brand new Wellness Center. It created opportunities for outdoor group fitness, small-group training and drop-in student use, which has helped us better serve students during peak hours and seasonal transitions. Their equipment also elevated the aesthetic and functionality of our outdoor spaces, supporting our department’s emphasis on wellness-centered environments.
What are the benefits to your members as a result of this partnership?
Our students love having access to high-quality fitness equipment in an outdoor setting. It’s created a more inclusive and inviting atmosphere for movement — especially for students who may feel intimidated by traditional indoor gym environments. The flexibility of the space encourages social connection, spontaneous activity and mental rejuvenation. You can’t beat the San Diego sunshine, and our new outdoor space lets us really lean into the natural beauty we are surrounded by.
Have you been pleasantly surprised by working with BeaverFit in any way?
Absolutely. Their customer service has been exceptional — from design consultations to delivery and support. They took time to understand our unique needs and worked with us to customize a solution that aligned with our mission and budget. The build quality has also exceeded expectations.
What else can you tell other campus rec professionals about the benefits of working with BeaverFit?
If you’re looking to enhance your facility’s impact without expanding your footprint, BeaverFit offers a smart, scalable solution. Their products are built for longevity and engagement, and their team truly understands the needs of collegiate recreation.
