SamFit Community Fitness Testing, a program of Samford University's School of Health Professions, connects Samford students with the Birmingham community through hands-on fitness, health and performance assessments.
Operated by students under the supervision of Department of Kinesiology associate professor Tyler Williams, PhD, the program provides community members access to advanced testing while giving students real-world experience.
The program uses state-of-the-art equipment and current exercise and sport science research to help clients better understand their health, fitness and performance. Students facilitate testing, interpret results and communicate findings, gaining practical experience while interacting with clients and adapting in real time.
"SamFit's two main focus areas are to create practical experiences for students to reinforce learning and develop professional skills, and to provide a world-class environment for community members to experience the hospitality and excellence of Christian professionals," Williams said
Within the program, students conduct assessments including aerobic capacity testing, body composition analysis, metabolic measurements and strength and performance evaluations, helping clients gain personalized insights they can apply to their health and fitness goals.
Students move through SamFit in a progression that mirrors a professional setting. They begin as apprentices, learning testing procedures and observing sessions, and advance to assistant and associate roles, where they lead assessments and mentor newer team members. This structure builds confidence, technical abilities and communication skills
For SamFit lead associate Bryn Todd, who graduated with a Bachelor of Science in kinesiology in May and will begin the Doctor of Physical Therapy program in August, the experience brings classroom learning to life.
"Working with SamFit has helped me visualize everything I'm learning in class," Todd said. "It’s also really meaningful to see how much our clients can learn from a single session and how they can track their progress over time.”
Programs like SamFit expand access to advanced fitness testing while giving students meaningful, hands-on experience that prepares them for careers in health professions. It also services the greater Birmingham community and helps them learn more about their body and physical abilities
Assessments range from $10 to $150, with most between $50 and $100, and do not require insurance. Scheduling is based on equipment and technician availability.
“SamFit will continue to help students apply scientific principles, work with real data and communicate results to different audiences while understanding what it means to serve others using the gifts and abilities God has given us with professionalism and excellence,” Williams said.
Learn more and schedule your SamFit appointment.
