Why Middlebury students need accessible fitness culture
In a 2021 winter term independent study about fitness culture on campus, Professor of Anthropology Kristen Bright, Madison Lord ’21 and Madeline Lyons ’22 conducted extensive ethnographic research that consisted of in-depth interviews and mixed-media surveys. The study ultimately illustrated a clear message from students: 80% of students surveyed feel strongly that Middlebury has a need for a more inclusive fitness culture — and non-varsity athletes were eight times more likely to report significant feelings of intimidation in workout spaces at Middlebury.