The Department of Physical Education, Intramurals and Recreation provides opportunities for students to participate in lifetime fitness and wellness activities through its required Physical Education courses, the FITbear Program, the Intramurals/Recreation Program and the Massage and Alexander Technique Program.

The Barnard Department of Dance is separate from the Department of Physical Education. However, students may take dance classes to fulfill their Physical Education requirement. Registration for dance classes can only be done through the Dance Department.