Published in The News Record
Photograph Students gear up to tackle the climbing wall in the Rec Center on Saturday, January 21, 2017.
Sep 6, 2018
Exercise can quickly become meticulous. Thankfully, the University of Cincinnati has many organizations that make it exciting to be active. From new equipment at the rec center to group fitness classes and rock climbing, UC has plenty of opportunities to help you stay fit throughout the semester.
1. Chaarg offers fitness and friendship for women on campus
Chaarg, a student-run organization for women, is a health and fitness group on campus. Founded in 2013, Chaarg recruits local fitness experts to lead classes from CrossFit to hula dancing. Its mission statement, according to ambassador Shannon Fastnacht, is to “liberate girls from the elliptical and show college-aged women that fitness can and should be fun.”
Being part of an all-female community is her favorite part of Chaarg, Fastnacht said. Not only is Chaarg a great way to stay fit it, it’s also a great way to meet new people.
“It’s too easy to get involved,” Fastnacht said.
To learn more or get involved, visit the Chaarg website or join the group for its tailgate on Sept. 15 to eat great food and meet new people.
2. Rock climbing isn’t just for experienced mountaineers
Looking for another unique and fun way to stay fit at UC? Visit the rock wall at the rec center. Avid rock climber Christian Barcale said he saw the wall during his first visit to UC’s rec center, and he knew he enjoyed climbing from the moment he tried it.
Barcale now works at the rock wall and encourages everyone to try this beginner-friendly activity and meet some new people. There are no fees to use the wall, and all equipment is provided. Workers are present to assist beginners.
Many UC students, Barcale included, travel to Red River Gorge to climb outdoors. However, Barcale recommends indoor practice before attempting more dangerous climbs. For students who feel inclined to try it out, the Mountaineering Club could be a great fit.
3. Blahblah
Last, but not least: the dreaded elliptical. Alone, using one of these machines isn’t a particularly thrilling endeavor. But by taking one of the many group fitness classes offered at the rec center, one can easily avoid the monotony of a treadmill.
Some of the most popular classes include spinning, yoga and boxing, according to student and rec center employee Taylor Fausey. The center offers many classes for free. Those that cost money are usually only $5, and “all you have to do is show up,” Fausey said.
There are so many other ways to get active at the rec center. Busybodies worry not — the center is open from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. Friday, 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday. It features a lap pool, suspended track and many new machines, so there is a time and place for everyone to get moving.
The University of Cincinnati is a big place. But with so many options, it’s easy for any student to get involved, meet new people and stay fit.
Maggy McDonel 