Fitness

Ross Fitness and Recreation Center

Through the generous contributions of Dr. David E. Ross and his family, the Ross Fitness and Recreation Center enhances the student experience at Meharry Medical College by offering a dedicated space for physical fitness, wellness and community connection. As the hub of Meharry’s wellness community, the Center brings together students, faculty and staff to focus on health, movement and balance. The facility features modern cardio and strength equipment, open gym areas and student-led sessions that encourage consistency and engagement across campus. Supported by Student Life and Campus Recreation, the Ross Fitness Center provides opportunities for students to prioritize holistic health through fitness programs, intramural activities and special events. Whether students are strength training, participating in group fitness sessions or competing in campus tournaments, the Ross Fitness and Recreation Center promotes balanced living, teamwork and meaningful engagement beyond the classroom.

Our facilities include: 

  • Full basketball court 
  • Weight room equipped with two 42-inch television screens 
  • Aerobic room, equipped with one 42-inch television screen 
Weight Training
The Ross Fitness Center offers a dedicated space for strength and conditioning. Students can access free weights, resistance machines and functional training zones designed to build endurance and confidence. Our staff and student leaders promote a supportive environment that helps participants reach their personal fitness goals.
 
 Zumba: Breast Cancer Awareness Edition
In recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Student Life hosted a high-energy Zumba session that blended movement and meaning. Participants wore pink to honor survivors and raise awareness while enjoying a music-filled cardio experience that united the Meharry community in strength and support.
 
Intramural Sports
Student Life’s intramural sports program allows students to stay active, compete and connect outside the classroom. Activities like 3-on-3 tournaments promote teamwork, leadership and friendly competition while fostering wellness and school pride across the campus community.

 

Located inside the Elam Mental Health Center in a specifically designated area, the Ross Center has a separate entrance for students and members. 

Contact Information

Ross Fitness Center Office: 615.963.3168 

Office of Student Life: 615.327.6792 
Email: studentservices@mmc.edu 
Warren Sawyers

Hours of Operation 
Mon. – Fri.  
6 a.m. – 8 p.m. 

Sat. – Sun. 
10 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Ross Fitness Center Participation Waiver

All students are required to complete a Ross Fitness Center Participation Waiver upon enrollment at Meharry Medical College.

Employees

Meharry Medical College employees are eligible to join the Ross Fitness Center by completing the forms below and returning them to the Department of Human Resources.

This is a resource to share information about maintaining a healthy state of mind.
HuffingtonPost: 5 Habits That Will Improve Your Emotional Wellness

Blissful Deep Relaxation Guided Meditation

Guided Sleep Meditation: Delta Waves & Inner Peace

Breathing Guided Imagery Meditation

10-Minute Meditation for Anxiety

Third Eye Opening Binaural Beat Meditation

Hours of availability for rental
8 a.m. – 8 p.m., seven days a week

Student intramural games and sporting events take precedence over other requests. The intramural basketball season typically runs from late January to early March on Monday and Thursday evenings and Saturday mornings.

The rental fee is waived for Meharry student organizations and for events hosted by Meharry Medical College departments.

Rental Fees

Group or Organization:

Meharry Students – Non-Meharry Event

Meharry Employees – Non-Meharry Event

External Groups or Individuals

Minimum Rental Duration:

1 Hour

2 Hours

3 Hours

Hourly Rental Fee:

$25.00

$50.00

$75.00

General rules for the private rental use of the Ross Fitness Center:

  • Groups must have a First Aid Kit on site and at least 1 person who is CPR certified (proof required upon confirmation of reservation).
  • Groups will need to supply their own sports accessories (basketballs, soccer balls, volleyballs).
  • Alcohol, drugs and weapons are prohibited in the Ross Fitness Center at all times.
  • Meharry is a smoke-free campus.
  • Furnishings provided by Ross Fitness Center are limited to tables and chairs currently on inventory at the Center. Any additional tables and chairs must be provided by the reserving party.
  • Set-up, break-down and clean-up time must be included in the reservation rental period.
  • All areas used must be returned to the condition they were in prior to the rental period.
  • All trash, decorations and other items brought in by the reserving party must be removed from the building.
  • All approved reservations require a certificate of liability insurance coverage of $1 million.
  • Reserving parties are financially responsible for any damage to facilities or equipment during the reservation period.
  • Student Life staff has the authority to stop any unsafe, destructive or illegal activity, and terminate the reservation in the event that policies and rules are continually violated.

Please direct all questions or concerns about reservations for the Ross Fitness Center to the Office of Student Life, studentservices@mmc.eduor (615) 327-6792.

Ross Fitness & Recreation Center Reservation Request Form

  • Requestor & Onsite Contact Information

  • Event Information

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