School’s back in session and the Hamel Rec Center is ready to rock and roll! Since there’s sure to be a fresh new crowd of Collegiettes who have already ordered their barely-there VS bikini’s along with their tickets to somewhere tropical for spring break, I figured it would be helpful to go over some of the rules of the rec center for those of you who haven’t exactly been “frequent flyers” last semester.
Our gym is a unique place. Unlike the gym you might workout at home, it’s often flooded with classmates, friends, acquaintances and even the kid you’ve met 20 times but still don’t know his name! Close quarters, tight spaces and a bunch of hot and sweaty strangers can make for an uncomfortable experience if you’re a newbie, but follow these rules and we can all try and make the miserable task of working out a little more comfortable for everyone.
There’s almost nothing worse than rounding up every ounce of your energy to make it to the gym, only to find the line at the elliptical is as long as the line you waited in for Wiz Khalifa tickets last spring. So let’s be clear here ladies, you’re thirty minutes is as valuable as mine. Please adhere to the 30 minute limit. If the gym starts clearing out, or someone hops off another machine, go for it! But when we’ve all got an episode of Revenge to watch at 9 and you’re dead set on burning 500 calories, things are going to get ugly.
Ever wonder what those towels and spray bottles are for? Having to wipe someones back sweat off the seated leg press is just as pleasant to me as it is to you. Clean your machine when you’re finished. It’s just plain gross if you don’t.
Unless your name is Jillian Michaels or Bob Harper (or a campus cutie) then letting me know that the form of my lunges could use some improving is creepy and annoying. Don’t give advice unless someone asks. Save me the embarrassment of correcting my form in front of half my english class and I’ll find a way to deal with my strained muscles.
If you can hear your grunting over your Lady Gaga workout playlist, so can I. Same goes for your music. Keep the noise level to a minimum. We all know that you’re working hard regardless of how much moaning you do.
Great work, you’re butt looks awesome. It’s hot in here, we get it. But for the rest of us who have packed on the winter break pounds and wouldn’t be caught dead in anything less than our old ratty sweatshirt and a baggy pair of sweatpants, you’re not helping our cause. If there’s any chance your shorts could be confused as undergarments, leave them at home. You wouldn’t want to see us wearing those would you?
Rite Aid is open 7 days a week 8am-9pm. If you’re running low on deodorant, I urge you to restock. Having to change machines because you can’t stand the smell of the person next to you is embarrassing and awkward for both of us. Don’t forget your D-O if you’ve got that B-O. (Also be advised that more than 2 sprays of your perfume/cologne is too many.)
If anyone has experienced a situation more awkward than opening the sauna door and finding a completely naked stranger sitting on the bench next to you, please let me know because I’m sure it must be hilarious. For the low price of an ID swipe, you can have your own towel to wrap yourself in and sit on so I really don’t understand anyone wanting to sit nude on that hot bench, ouch! Yes we’re all girls here, but please cover up. Public nudity rules should apply to the locker room/sauna. Just don’t do it.
BONUS TIPS:
Peak gym hours are 3:00-7:30. College kids seem to flock to the gym post class and post hangover. Avoid this time slot and you’ll probably avoid crowds too!
Taking a workout class guarantees you an hour of sweat-time. Make sure to check out the schedule here for what’s being offered and when!
Have you ever finished working out and regretted doing it? Didn’t think so. Get off your butt and get to work so you’ll look great in those beach photos with your friends!