Testing the Limits: Utah Tech’s New Center Helps the Community Thrive

Utah Tech University recently created a center dedicated to advancing the frontiers of extreme human performance. UT’s Center for Endurance and Extreme Human Performance is located on the university’s campus and examines the limits of human capability.

Initially, the center provided athletes with a way to test body composition, resting and metabolic rates, and muscle mass. It was founded in conjunction with the St. George IRONMAN race. Over time, the center has shifted its focus from high-performing athletes to the broader community.

The center now offers testing services to both community members and students. Milan Pantovic, center director and professor at Utah Tech, said the goal is for people to come in, be tested, and receive feedback. From there, staff can provide recommendations and offer support in specific areas of need, resulting in healthier lifestyles and greater awareness of individual health. “The idea for the center is to go out and explain the importance of checkups, a healthy lifestyle, and prevention,” said Pantovic.

Many of the tests conducted at the center are geared toward older adults, not just college students or professional athletes. Assessments include fall risk evaluations, bone density testing, and nutrition consultations. The center also provides strength-training guidance tailored to each individual.

The center is operated in partnership with Utah Tech students. Four student interns currently work in the facility, reflecting UT’s polytechnic academic model and its commitment to hands-on learning. The interns are trained on the equipment and are responsible for running tests for participants. “We have a good program within the exercise science degree for building a solid foundation, but opportunities like this—and some of our other classes where we get to apply those skills—are super beneficial,” said Jackson Lambert, a senior exercise science major at Utah Tech who interns at the center.

The services offered at the Center for Endurance and Extreme Human Performance are available at a fraction of the typical cost. For example, a DEXA scan—which measures body composition and bone density—can range from $100 to $400 in the community. At Utah Tech, the center charges just $80 for community members and $20 for students.

In addition to providing affordable services, the center has undergone extensive review by the Institutional Review Board (IRB) to ensure that all tests and procedures meet safety and ethical standards.

The Center for Endurance and Extreme Human Performance exemplifies Utah Tech University’s commitment to hands-on education and its dedication to improving and serving the community.

For more information, visit health.utahtech.edu/health-humanperformance/ceehp.