NIRSA Facility Feature: MizzouRec Outdoor Fitness Space

In September 2023, the University of Missouri (Mizzou) opened its MizzouRec Outdoor Fitness Space.

This fitness area, designed by International Architects Atelier, was designed to meet a specific need for additional workout areas while working within stringent space constraints. The innovative approach taken to address these issues resulted in a functional and effective space which serves the campus population well, and was recognized with a 2025 NIRSA Outstanding Facilities Award, sponsored by Mondo.

The creation of the outdoor fitness space was a direct response to feedback from students, who indicated a desire for more functional fitness equipment. With a lifting area that was overcrowded and no building space to expand into, planners looked to the outdoors, utilizing the space occupied by the underutilized Truman Pond swimming pool.

Reimagining the space

The location the pool used to occupy is now an outdoor turf area containing a variety of fitness equipment, including:

A tire flipping station
Weight sleds
Olympic lifting platforms
Squat racks
Pull up bars
Stationary bicycles
A rowing machine
TRX resistance training equipment

AIA Principal at International Architects Atelier, Majid Amirahmadi shares, “We kept campus identity and branding at the center of the design. When the space is lit up at night, the colored translucent panels incorporated in the cover canopy illuminate gold and black, creating a visual connection to the university for all who pass by. It’s a powerful expression of pride and belonging.”

Working through challenges

The potential downfall to the facility’s outdoor addition? Midwest weather.

Summers in Columbia are hot, with average temperatures in the high 80s (F), and winter months typically see highs in the 40s (F) and lows that reach below freezing. Determined to create a space that would be useable year-round, planners incorporated features that would allow facility users to have protection from the elements while retaining the benefits of being outdoors.

In the winter, rows of heaters (which are remotely monitored and are automated using smart controls) mitigate the effects of cold temperatures. In the summer months, sunshades and mechanical fans help to cool the area, making it more suitable for working out.

Since its opening, the Outdoor Fitness Space has been well utilized, hosting an average of 85 users per day in the warmer months and nearly 60 daily users in the winter months. “It’s an honor to be recognized with the Outstanding Facilities Award. The MizzouRec Outdoor Fitness Space is a testament to the true collaboration between the student body, the design team, and the MU project team,” says Majid. Congratulations to the teams at Mizzou and International Architects Atelier for their collaboration on this unique and impactful project!