Finding time for wellness in college can feel unrealistic when classes, jobs and social plans already fill up the week. For students looking for a way to stay active without pressure, the CHAARG chapter at West Virginia University offers a flexible approach to fitness that prioritizes community just as much as movement.
Inside the Org is a Her Campus at WVU series highlighting student organizations that help shape campus life. For the first feature, the focus is on CHAARG, a wellness organization that encourages students to explore fitness in a way that feels accessible and social.
CHAARG, which stands for “Changing Health Attitudes and Actions to Recreate Girls,” is the largest wellness club on more than 100 college campuses. The organization is built around the idea that working out does not have to look the same for everyone. Instead of sticking to one routine, members are encouraged to try new workouts while connecting with others who are doing the same.
The WVU CHAARG chapter was founded in Spring 2021 by students who wanted to create a welcoming fitness space on campus. Since then, the chapter has hosted weekly workouts, social events and small groups designed to support both physical and mental well being.
Leyna Dumorne, president and ambassador of the WVU CHAARG chapter, said she joined the organization as a freshman because it combined her interest in fitness with a supportive environment.
“Our weekly workouts give me time to step away from school and screens,” Dumorne said. “No matter what type of workout we do, I always leave feeling refreshed.”
For Alexia Whitehair, vice president of media, CHAARG became an outlet outside of academics and a way to meet new people.
“I wanted something that was not just school,” Whitehair said. “Being involved has helped me try new things, meet people and grow more comfortable stepping outside my comfort zone.”
One of the reasons students are drawn to CHAARG because of is its flexibility. There is no required level of involvement, and members can choose which workouts or events they want to attend. Throughout the semester, the chapter hosts a variety of workouts, including barre, strength training, dance, yoga and martial arts. Many of these sessions take place at local studios in Morgantown or through collaborations with other student organizations.
Beyond workouts, CHAARG places a strong emphasis on building connections. The chapter hosts social events such as trivia nights, craft activities and game nights, along with small groups that meet weekly. These smaller groups give members the chance to connect in a more relaxed setting, whether that looks like coffee runs, lunches or creative nights.
Inclusivity is a key part of the organization’s approach. Members do not need prior fitness experience to join, and there is no pressure to attend workouts that feel intimidating.
“We really try to meet people where they are,” Whitehair said. “There is no expectation to have a certain fitness background.”
Students interested in joining CHAARG can sign up through shop.chaarg.com by selecting West Virginia University. Memberships are offered by semester or for the full academic year and are not automatically renewable. Students can also join at any point during the year.
Looking ahead, the chapter hopes to grow its membership and continue partnering with local studios and other student organizations on campus. The executive team is also open to collaborations and new ideas from members.
For students who may feel unsure about joining something new, Dumorne said CHAARG’s low pressure structure makes it easy to try.
“You get to decide how involved you want to be,” Dumorne said. “It is a good way to explore fitness without feeling overwhelmed.”
Through Inside the Org, Her Campus WVU will continue spotlighting organizations that offer students practical ways to connect, stay active and feel more at home on campus.