Sweaty men and women, strange metal machines with dangling devices–can you guess where you are. Although some of the equipment is complex and looks dangerous, the gym is not a scary, medieval torture chamber or a Bally’s Total Fitness commercial. It is a great place to work out, meet friends, release energy and relieve stress.
With Burr Gymnasium on campus, students do not have to travel far to work out. Equipped with basketball courts, a pool and two workout rooms, there is something for everyone’s needs. However, if you are a beginner, here are a few suggestions to aid your workout:
Want to burn calories? The treadmill is the best choice! Users can burn up to100 calories per mile. Before you start be careful not to overwork your joints. Begin slowly and gradually pick up speed.
Do not be afraid to lift weights. Weight training is a great way to shed pounds and sculpt the body. Be sure to operate the equipment safely.
The pool is a different place to workout. By spending two hours swimming, the average person can lose over 500 calories. If you can’t swim or do not want to get your hair wet, running or walking around the pool can remove excess belly fat.
Don’t want to come out of your dorm? There are plenty of easy workouts to do at home.
Stairs are your friend! Do not be the person stared at for getting off the elevator at the second floor! Try to take the stairs at least once a day. This will give you a chance to burn calories and shape your leg muscles.
Turn your dorm décor into workout equipment. Here are a few tips from Shape Magazine:
Desk Pushups – Push your desk against a wall and place your hands on the edge, shoulder-width apart. With your feet planted on the ground, back flat and chest aligned with the edge, bring your chest six inches toward the desk, then return your body back to starting position. Try up to three sets of 15.
Bed Dips – For strong arms, do bed dips. Sit on the edge of the bed with your hands next to hips. Move your hips in front of the bed and bend your elbows. Next, lower a few inches while keeping your butt close to the bed. Don’t sink into the shoulders or lower past 90 degrees. Push back up and repeat for three sets of 15.
It may seem daunting at first, but exercising can be fun after much practice. If you need extra motivation, grab a roommate or friend and start working out together.
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