By Joe Aura, aurajoe6@gmail.com
In Nairobi, the fitness wave is stronger than ever. From pounding pavements with We Run Nairobi to sweating it out on the Ontz Ontz dance floors and earning crypto on the Step App, fitness has become a vibrant culture. It’s not just about looking good—it’s a way of life. As the city’s fitness industry thrives, with gyms and wellness clubs cropping up in every neighborhood, universities are catching on to the trend.
This weekend, Daystar University is set to host its much-anticipated Sports Day at Kilimani Primary School. The event, organized by the Office of the Campus Governor, promises a fun-filled day with activities designed to unleash the inner child in everyone. Themed “Unite, Play, Thrive!”, it aims to highlight the importance of physical activities in promoting students’ health and well-being.
Why Physical Activity Matters
University students often juggle academic pressures, financial constraints, and social expectations—all of which can contribute to stress and anxiety. According to Ewing Moussa, Director of Campus Recreation at Clarion University, physical activity provides a unique outlet for students to manage stress, maintain mental health, and introduce structure and discipline into their daily routines.
Beyond the mental health benefits, sports also contribute to better academic performance. Research indicates that physical activity improves concentration, analytical skills, and time management. Furthermore, sports instill life skills such as teamwork, communication, and decision-making—essentials for future careers.
A Day to Remember
Daystar’s Sports Day will feature a variety of activities to cater to all fitness levels and interests. From traditional track and field events to fun games and team challenges, the event aims to create an inclusive environment where every student feels encouraged to participate. Food vendors offering everything from fast food to healthy snacks will also be present, ensuring the day is as nourishing as it is energizing.
The event aligns with the growing fitness culture in Nairobi. Similar to initiatives like We Run Nairobi, which fosters a community of runners exploring the city’s trails, Sports Day will bring together students from diverse backgrounds, united by the joy of movement.
Join the Movement
As Nairobi’s fitness industry continues to grow—contributing to Kenya’s KSh 5 billion health and wellness market—universities have a pivotal role in encouraging students to adopt healthy lifestyles. Daystar University’s Sports Day is more than just an event; it is a call to action for young people to embrace fitness, prioritize their well-being, and thrive both academically and personally.
Whether you’re a fitness enthusiast, a casual participant, or just looking for a break from routine, lace up your sneakers, bring your squad, and be part of a day dedicated to health, fun, and community spirit.
Date: 1st March 2025
Venue: Kilimani Primary School
Time: 10 AM – 4 PM
Reference List
We Run Nairobi | Together, Every Step Tells a Story. Retrieved from https://werunnairobi.com
Fitness enthusiasts keep Kenya’s gyms roaring – Capital Business. Retrieved from https://www.capitalfm.co.ke/business/2021/10/fitness-enthusiasts-keep-kenyas-gyms-roaring/
Weight, Strength and Stamina: Inside Kenya’s KSh 5 Billion Fitness Industry – Tuko News. Retrieved from https://www.tuko.co.ke/428102-weight-strength-stamina-inside-kenyas-ksh-5-billion-fitness-industry.html
Step App and the Rise of Move-to-Earn Fitness in Kenya. Retrieved from https://www.step.app
Moussa, E. (n.d.). Students Who Exercise Tend To Maintain A Routine In Their Daily Activities. Clarion University of Pennsylvania.