Health and Fitness

Off the Clock: Sarah Holland runs at peak performance

lclarkg — Wed, 30 Sep 2026 14:20:21 +0000

Off the Clock: Sarah Holland runs at peak performance lclarkg Wed, 09/30/2026 - 10:20

Long-distance running requires discipline, endurance, and mental toughness. Sarah Holland, CERG Folklore Studies '22, communications officer in the Office of University Branding, has been running in 5ks, half marathons, and trail races across the United States for years.

They recently finished a 28k at The Rut, a trail running festival in Big Sky, Montana. In this race, Holland ascended and descended a rugged mountain summit more than 11,000 feet above sea level, finishing in approximately seven and a half hours.

Across all the different races Holland runs, a variety of terrains—or the novelty of an interesting theme—keep the journey interesting.

“I’d say my favorite type of race is less about distances and more about vibes,” Holland said.

Sarah Holland completed the 28k race at The Rut, a trail running festival in Big Sky, Montana. This section of the race is aptly named Bonecrusher Ridge. Photo provided

Please share a bit about The Rut. What inspired you to participate?

The Rut is one of the largest trail running events in North America. Runners tackle a variety of distances, all of which run up, down, and around Lone Mountain on highly technical and challenging terrain while battling thousands of feet of elevation gain and loss.

The 28k, which is the race I did this year, is about 17.3 miles. A friend of mine did the race in 2019. I watched her and, in a moment of delirious self-confidence, said, “Yeah, I could probably do that.” Mind you, I had never run a trail race before, nor had I ever climbed anything higher than maybe 1,000 feet. But I love unique and unusual running experiences, and this felt like something that would, at minimum, make an entertaining story.

In 2022 I “ran” (it was more like...hiking with purpose) the 28k and somehow not only survived but finished within the cutoff time. Since then, I’ve gotten a lot stronger, a lot faster, and a lot better at trail running. After running the 21k last year, I wanted to give the 28k another shot to see if I could do it faster this time around.

Describe how you felt when you finished the race.

Very, very dehydrated! But proud, for accomplishing my goal of running it faster than the first time. There is a dual sense of elation for doing something incredibly hard and succeeding while also feeling physically depleted and a little delirious. It takes a few hundred calories, a gallon of water, and a good shower to bring your brain back online.

How long have you been running and participating in races? Do you have a favorite type of race?

I started running 5ks in college, and I think my first half marathon was in 2018. I usually do a few races a year, along with running multiple times a week.

My goal is to run a race in every state, including Washington, D.C. I like unique experiences, like the International Half-Marathon that runs from Detroit, Michigan, into Windsor, Canada, and back, or the King Crab Challenge, where you run three races in Maryland and get a massive medal the size of your head as a reward.

I’ve also run the Richmond Half-Marathon a few times, not because the course is unique, but because the crowds for that race are amazing. The whole city turns out to celebrate and support the runners.

Sarah Holland, communications officer in the Office of University Branding, crosses the finish line at The Rut. Photo provided

What has been the most meaningful or memorable experience?

I’ve had a lot of memorable experiences...some good, and some not so good. I fainted in the middle of Ceasar’s Palace in Las Vegas, Nevada, after running the Las Vegas Rock n’ Roll Half Marathon. That was certainly memorable.

But generally, seeing what my body is capable of is really rewarding: finishing The Rut for the first time or setting a new personal best during my first race after sustaining a partial Achilles tear. It’s wild what you’re capable of when put to the test, and it’s been really cool to watch myself get faster and stronger over the past decade of endurance running.

Have you learned any lessons through your experiences as a runner?

Other than running and working, I write fiction, paint, play the cello, and I've recently started taking acting classes. There are a surprising number of skills and lessons that you can take from running and apply to creative fields: the importance of rest days, the value in pushing yourself to try something difficult even if you won’t do it perfectly, the necessity of practice. These are all things that transfer between running and creative practice. And I think I’m a much better artist as a result.

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Mason Recreation facilities are getting into shape with improvements that support fitness and well-being

lclarkg — Thu, 24 Sep 2026 14:47:21 +0000

Mason Recreation facilities are getting into shape with improvements that support fitness and well-being lclarkg Thu, 09/24/2026 - 10:47

911�� is offering improved fitness and well-being experiences across Mason Recreation facilities this fall, featuring new exercise equipment, technology, and redesigned spaces to support the Mason Nation’s fitness goals.

Mason Recreation has invested about $3 million in facility enhancements and equipment upgrades on the Fairfax Campus throughout 2026, along with an additional $1 million through the second phase of the multi-year Aquatic and Fitness Center (AFC) improvement project.

The Aquatic and Fitness Center cardio gallery. Photo by Mason Recreation

“Mason Recreation is an important part of the experience 911�� provides, and the timing was right to invest in spaces that reflect the momentum we’ve built over the past several years,” said Sheldon Tate, executive director of Mason Recreation. “These improvements bring our equipment and facilities in line with the experience we want to provide for students.”

The improvements span the AFC, Recreation and Athletic Complex (RAC), and Skyline Fitness Center. While minor improvements began during the 2025–26 academic year, much of the most visible work occurred this summer.

“Patrons will notice the replacement of aging equipment and infrastructure, which means fewer equipment outages and a more consistent experience every time they visit,” said Chris Topping, director of facilities and strategic partnerships for Mason Recreation. “We also invested in new technology and wellness-focused amenities that offer more ways to use our recreation facilities and support well-being.”

Patrons will notice upgraded equipment at campus recreation facilities like the AFC (pictured). Photo by Mason Recreation

The most extensive changes took place at the AFC, including upgraded flooring, lighting, and finishes, plus new wellness and recovery amenities. Matrix and Hammer Strength fitness equipment and smart strength training equipment were added to the upper fitness area. The app-based EGYM strength training system automatically adjusts equipment based on a user’s height, strength level, and fitness goals, provides guided workouts, and tracks progress over time.

The AFC now offers a new Stretching and Recovery Studio, giving patrons a dedicated space for recovery, mobility, and wellness. The studio includes recovery technology like Hyperice devices, zero-gravity chairs, Normatec compression systems, massage guns, foam rollers, and other tools. A massage chair is expected to be added to the studio, with another planned for the RAC.

The app-based EGYM strength training system automatically adjusts equipment based on a user’s height, strength level, and fitness goals for a personalized experience. Photo by Mason Recreation

Upgrades at the RAC include new fitness equipment and classroom furniture. Both racquetball courts are being converted into a Functional Training Studio, adding space for activities such as strength and conditioning, instructional classes, and club sport training.

The Skyline Fitness Center is sporting a refreshed layout with new Matrix and Hammer Strength equipment, flooring and turf in the cardio and free-weight areas, and updated finishes.

Mason Recreation has also added more flexible spaces for activities beyond individual workouts. Classroom spaces at both the AFC and RAC can be easily converted into multipurpose spaces, accommodating a wider range of programs, events, and student activities.

“The best part of this is that we aren’t done yet, and more surprises are on the horizon,” said Tate.

Learn more about Mason Recreation

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Mason Square flexed its neighborhood spirit at Clarendon FitFest

lclarkg — Thu, 21 May 2026 14:32:53 +0000

Mason Square flexed its neighborhood spirit at Clarendon FitFest lclarkg Thu, 05/21/2026 - 10:32

Mason Square hosted Clarendon FitFest on April 18, a community wellness event full of resources to promote active lifestyles, well-being, and meaningful connections between 911�� and the local Arlington community.

Photo by Romulfo Sison/Office of University Branding

The event brought together more than 400 attendees including students, faculty, staff, community members, and local businesses for physical activity, wellness education, and accessible health resources.

The sun was shining as more than 150 runners and walkers participated in the Pacers 5K run and two-mile walk to kick off the event. Live fitness demonstrations occurred every hour on the plaza, including Zumba, barre, Pilates, yoga, and more. Local fitness and wellness businesses hosted booths with interactive wellness activities.

Photo by Romulfo Sison/Office of University Branding

The event was a collaboration between 911��, Clarendon Alliance, and Pacers Running.

“Events like Clarendon FitFest are a great example of what becomes possible when a university is genuinely embedded in its surrounding community,” said Melissa Thierry, director of University Life Regional Campuses. “Mason Square is an urban campus, and that means the energy and vibrancy of the space depends on what we build together with our neighbors. The connection between campus life and the broader Clarendon neighborhood is a real asset to the student experience here.”

Photo by Romulfo Sison/Office of University Branding

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Meet the Mason Nation: Olga O’Brien, general manager, Freedom Aquatic & Fitness Center

lclarkg — Wed, 13 Sep 2023 17:37:11 +0000

Meet the Mason Nation: Olga O’Brien, general manager, Freedom Aquatic & Fitness Center lclarkg Wed, 09/13/2023 - 13:37

Olga O'Brien, general manager of the Freedom Aquatic & Fitness Center. Photo by Evan Cantwell/Office of University Branding

Olga O’Brien

Job: General Manager, Freedom Aquatic & Fitness Center

Olga O’Brien, general manager of the Freedom Aquatic & Fitness Center, started her journey at 911�� as an international student. O’Brien came to Mason from Prague on a volleyball scholarship. As a student, she started working as a part-time volleyball instructor at the Freedom Center in 1999—the year the center first opened. And she has been there ever since.

The Freedom Aquatic & Fitness Center, a 110,000-square-foot facility at Mason’s Science and Technology Campus, operates under a Tripartite agreement including Mason, Prince William County, and the City of Manassas. The university manages all aspects of the daily administration and operation of the facility—its pools, gymnasium, exercise studios, racquetball courts, child care center, staffing, summer camps, and community programming.

O’Brien has served in many roles at the Freedom Center, including programs manager, interim general manager, and general manager since 2017. A two-time Mason alum with a master’s in recreation administration and bachelor’s in physical education and health, O’Brien has had an indelible impact on the Freedom Center community.

Never the same routine. O’Brien said every day is different when working in a community recreation facility—and that’s what she loves about her job. “On a daily basis, I have the opportunity to interact with our members, staff, community partners, and university colleagues,” O’Brien said. “Each day presents different scenarios to navigate. I like the unknown of each day and the new challenges that arise.”

The Freedom Aquatic & Fitness Center is home to many fitness opportunities, such as an indoor track, pools, and basketball courts. Photo by Evan Cantwell/Office of University Branding

Inspiring one another. The positive atmosphere of the Freedom Center motivates O’Brien and her team. Helping members reach their health and wellness goals is one of the biggest on-the-job rewards—and the endorphins are contagious. “Seeing members’ smiles as they check in to start their work out, or walk out of a group exercise class after pushing themselves to the next level—this inspires my team and me to continue working hard to improve each day,” O’Brien said. “We truly have created a ‘Freedom Family’ and look forward to seeing each other succeed each day.”

Learning from the best. O’Brien said her experiences as a student athlete and her education prepared her for a career in the recreation industry. “In addition to the knowledge learned in the classroom, I was able to grow as an individual and leader to better serve my team and facility,” O’Brien said. She also recognizes those who helped her along the way. “The most significant influence on my work has been my supervisor, mentor, and role model for more than 20 years: Ron Carmichael, director of administration and operations for the SciTech Campus,” O’Brien said. “He has provided opportunities to grow and find my specific leadership and management style, supported my goals and ideas, and shares a common passion for the health and wellness industry.”

Sports and serenity. When she’s not at work, O’Brien keeps pulse of her family’s athletic pursuits. “My sons’ passion for competitive basketball keeps us very busy, between practices and games,” she said. “I find joy and peace with gardening, yoga, playing pickleball, and volleyball.” Finding new places to travel and adventures to experience with her family also top the list.

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911�� professor says exercise routines during pandemic can safeguard physical and mental health

ckearney — Mon, 11 Jan 2021 16:12:51 +0000

911�� professor says exercise routines during pandemic can safeguard physical and mental health ckearney Mon, 01/11/2021 - 11:12

911�� fitness expert Oladipo Eddo, an assistant professor of kinesiology in Mason’s College of Education and Human Development, said that it’s important to make physical and mental exercise a part of your routine in 2021. In addition, Eddo emphasized the need to stay socially engaged and avoid isolation.

Oladipo Eddo

“It’s important to get back to or start a healthy routine during the pandemic,” said Eddo. “The magic recipe to staying healthy is to remain physically, mentally and socially active.”

Eddo said that well-intentioned efforts to mitigate the spread of coronavirus have inadvertently negatively affected health and well-being. He suggests refocusing energy on maintaining health by establishing new routines for physical activity. Walking, Eddo said, is a great choice for getting the recommended 150 minutes of moderate intensity aerobic exercise weekly.

“But with winter weather around the corner, outdoor activities like walking may become more challenging,” said Eddo. “Consider supplementing with yoga, Pilates, and modified calisthenics and band exercises. This can be accomplished through group virtual workouts and activity tracker challenges and competitions with friends and family members.”

Eddo emphasized that physical activity has been shown to lead to decreased susceptibility to diseases such as diabetes and dementia, as well as reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety.

In addition to devoting time to physical activity, Eddo suggested making it a New Year’s resolution to focus on dietary habits.

“The positive effects of exercise are significantly increased when a heart healthy diet is introduced,” Eddo said. “Consider trying new recipes, challenging yourself and rewarding your palate.”

Eddo said that mental exercise is also important to safeguarding health.

“Try new mentally stimulating activities,” Eddo said. “It has been suggested that gaining new skills creates new connections between brain cells and brain areas. Read a new book, learn a new language, pick up playing chess or gardening.”

Eddo added that staying socially engaged can be challenging during the pandemic, but that maintaining relationships is also important for emotional health.

“Maintaining social connections has positive effects on brain function, mood, and potentially wards off depression,” Eddo said. “This might be a good time to pick up playing board games with family members. Consider texting less and speaking more, either through the phone or video calls.”

Eddo grew up mostly in Nigeria. He came to the United States to study at Mason. He earned his BS, master’s degree and doctorate all at Mason.

To reach Oladipo Eddo directly, contact him at oeddo@gmu.edu

For more information, contact Anna Stolley Persky at apersky@gmu.edu

About 911��

911�� is Virginia’s largest public research university. Located near Washington, D.C., Mason enrolls more than 38,000 students from 130 countries and all 50 states. Mason has grown rapidly over the past half-century and is recognized for its innovation and entrepreneurship, remarkable diversity and commitment to accessibility.

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Off the Clock: Sarah Holland runs at peak performance

Please share a bit about The Rut. What inspired you to participate?

Describe how you felt when you finished the race.

How long have you been running and participating in races? Do you have a favorite type of race?

What has been the most meaningful or memorable experience?

Have you learned any lessons through your experiences as a runner?

Read More Like This

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Mason Recreation facilities are getting into shape with improvements that support fitness and well-being

Read more like this

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Mason Square flexed its neighborhood spirit at Clarendon FitFest

Read More Like This

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Meet the Mason Nation: Olga O’Brien, general manager, Freedom Aquatic & Fitness Center

Read more Meet the Mason Nation

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911�� professor says exercise routines during pandemic can safeguard physical and mental health

Topics

Health and Fitness

Off the Clock: Sarah Holland runs at peak performance

Please share a bit about The Rut. What inspired you to participate?

Describe how you felt when you finished the race.

How long have you been running and participating in races? Do you have a favorite type of race?

What has been the most meaningful or memorable experience?

Have you learned any lessons through your experiences as a runner?

Read More Like This

Topics

Mason Recreation facilities are getting into shape with improvements that support fitness and well-being

Read more like this

Topics

Mason Square flexed its neighborhood spirit at Clarendon FitFest

Read More Like This

Topics

Meet the Mason Nation: Olga O’Brien, general manager, Freedom Aquatic & Fitness Center

Read more Meet the Mason Nation

Topics

911���� professor says exercise routines during pandemic can safeguard physical and mental health

Topics

911�� professor says exercise routines during pandemic can safeguard physical and mental health