Tired of lifting weights and running on the treadmill? Look no further!
It’s obvious that many U of G students love hitting the gym. It’s a 5,500 square-foot state-of-the-art facility open from dusk to dawn, with three workout areas designed for different purposes. What’s not to love? Probably the fact that so many people love it.
The fitness centre at the Guelph Gryphons Athletics Centre (GGAC) is always packed. If you’re not there right at sunrise or well after sunset, you’re most likely going to have to wait for machines and weights, or settle for your second, maybe even your third choice. If you have a busy class schedule, as many students do, you’re likely going to find yourself playing this waiting game instead of making gains.
If you’re looking to get an intense workout in without having to wait around, or simply feel intimidated by the mass of people at the gym, here are some great alternatives to the fitness centre that allow you to get what you need:
Either you didn’t know we had a pool, didn’t think you could use it if you’re not a varsity swimmer, or just never thought about swimming. The GGAC aquatics centre has two pools, one for leisure (Red Pool) and one for lane swimming (Gold Pool), as well as a jacuzzi hot tub. Swimming is one of the most aerobic forms of exercise because the water adds resistance to a cardio and muscle workout. It is open every day, several times throughout the day. Jump in!
There are hundreds of classes each week in the GGAC, with everything from hip-hop yoga, to boxing, to a combined spin and core circuit. They vary in intensity, group size, and occur at all times throughout the day. You’re guaranteed to find something suited to your preference!
Whether you’re a sharpshooter on the court or on the ice, there are plenty of opportunities to play some pickup games on campus, you don’t even need to bring a ball or a puck!
If you’re an athlete looking to play a friendly match of C-level soccer, or a competitive A-level volleyball game, sign up for intramurals. You can make your own team or register as a free agent for a wide variety of sports at different skill levels. If you missed your chance this year, hopefully intramural registration for Fall 2019 is enough to get you excited for next school year!