Jun 23, 2025

More Movement, Less Couch: 30% Rise in Physical Activity

Momentum is building around physical activity at KFUPM, and the numbers tell a compelling story. Since 2022, the College of General Studies at KFUPM has seen a steady rise in both the number of participants and the variety of physical activities offered. This year, participation grew by nearly 30%, reflecting a sustained commitment to student health, fitness, and overall well-being.

The upward trend is not limited to student involvement. Faculty, staff, and even alums are increasingly joining in, with 9187 participants in 2025 alone. In fact, over 100 KFUPM family members also took part in group activities. This engagement is turning the Physical Education department’s programs into shared experiences open to all ages and professional roles. This cross-community engagement reflects KFUPM’s broader values of inclusivity, openness, and connection.

The Physical Education department now offers (offered) 67 fitness programs and activities, including recreational sports, group exercise, competitive training, and wellness education. These have helped create a more active and united campus culture. From first-year students to postgraduate researchers, the appeal is wide-reaching.

The rise in engagement has also led to a more potent competitive edge. KFUPM’s sports teams have earned several awards in recent years, with 25 added to their long list of achievements just in 2025 in Saudi University Sports Federation competitions and other tournaments. This is a direct outcome of the broader participation and consistent training infrastructure now in place.

With health and wellness now more integrated into daily university life, the Physical Education Department is proving that good habits can evolve into a shared purpose. As KFUPM continues to grow, so too does its community’s awareness of the long-term value of physical activity. It can be said that the department’s sustained progress is in line with the recent KFUPM cultural shift toward valuing a healthier balance between professional responsibilities and personal life.