Athletics Centre overhauls cardio and weight areas to create a more modern, better-equipped fitness centre
BY RACHELLE COOPER
The cardio and weight areas of the Mitchell Athletics Centre got a complete overhaul over the holidays, transforming the space into a more modern, well-equipped fitness centre.
When U of G's new director of athletics, Tom Kendall, arrived on campus in September 2004, he was not impressed with the quality of the fitness equipment and immediately decided to make upgrades a priority.
“It's my belief that our students, faculty and staff should have the best programs and service we can provide,” says Kendall. “I felt the need to upgrade the fitness/weight room equipment and decor so our members would have a spa-type facility and first-class equipment. Upgrades to the cardio and weight-training equipment and the installation of a video entertainment system will make the facility more effective and much more user-friendly.”
More than $100,000 worth of cardio equipment, including five top-of-the-line Woodway treadmills, new cross-training machines and recumbent bikes, was purchased for the cardio theatre, which now includes televisions and is located on the balcony on the east side of the main gym. A small circuit area, a few light weights and the spinning class stationary bicycles are now also located on the east balcony.
The old circuit room and cardio room now make up the strength-training area. More than $30,000 worth of weights, benches and Bosu balls were purchased to upgrade and add to existing equipment.
The old cardio room is now the training room for more advanced lifting.
“It has lots of benches, lots of heavier free weights and more room for people to work on advanced training,” says Pat Richards, lifestyle/fitness program supervisor. The old circuit room now houses the medium to lighter weight-training equipment and body part machines.
The new strength-training area was also renovated to include new carpet and fresh paint.
“We worked with interior designers on campus to create a more pleasant environment,” says Richards. “We're committed to doing what it takes to keep our students, faculty and staff healthier.”
Adds Kendall: “This is only Phase 1 of a three-year plan to phase out the old ergonomically incorrect equipment and to get up to speed in creating a better fitness centre.”
Renovating the women's change room on the main floor of the Athletics Centre is high on the list of work that will be done in the near future, he says.
