Article by James Greene | Photography by James Trudeau & John Parks | Owl Staff
No matter what time of year it is, it can be tough for busy students to find time to get to the gym, not to mention facing the challenges of a tight budget. While local gym memberships vary in price, the HCC fitness center offers a free alternative.
Conveniently located in HCC’s Susquehanna Center attached to the new APGFCU arena, the fitness center is open to students and employees alike. The interior of the new center increased in size to about five thousand square feet, which is about 50% more space than the old center.
Among the equipment are new, professional weight machines to allow for a dynamic strength workout. There are bench and leg presses, several pull-up bars, two professional squat bars, and so much more.
Treadmills, rowing machines, exercise bikes, and other machines allow for a superior cardio workout. In addition, there is a new swimming pool and auxiliary gym.
The staff of the fitness center is there to provide guidance and assistance for maintenance and equipment use. Tim Schneider, a facilitator, says that the abundance of windows allows for more natural light to come through. “The light allows for a more positive mood and workout,” says Schneider.
“Treadmills, rowing machines, exercise bikes, and other machines allow for a superior cardio workout. In addition, there is a new swimming pool and auxiliary gym.”
HCC student Kirby Kelbaugh appreciates the approachability of the fitness center staff. “They showed me how to use the equipment and helped make a fitness plan,” shares Kelbaugh. He also agrees that the new center has everything mainstream gyms do at nowhere near the cost.
Criminal Justice major Kyle Condon adds, “It’s a great place to work out and nicer than any gym I’ve ever been to.”
Don’t forget that there is no charge for the multiple benefits that the fitness center offers; just remember to bring your student ID. So, whether you’re preparing for swimsuit season or getting in a last-minute workout to prepare for the holidays, it’s not too late to get into the best shape of your life at no cost.