In a world consumed by digital screens, whether you’re a seasoned athlete or someone who has never run a mile, the gym offers a welcome escape for pursuing a healthy and enjoyable lifestyle. The key to a successful fitness journey lies in goal-setting, a personal touch that allows you to monitor your progress effectively. With diverse aspirations in the realm of physical fitness, the first step is identifying your fitness objectives.
From those striving to gain muscle, shed weight, or excel in specific athletic pursuits like track running, powerlifting, bodybuilding, or calisthenics, Appalachian State University offers three distinct gym facilities. The question that arises is, which one suits you best?
Mount Mitchell
Positioned on the third floor of the student union, Mount Mitchell describes itself as a “cardiovascular and weight training fitness facility with a multipurpose area for various aerobic classes catering to students and faculty.” It houses three dedicated sections: the cardio area, strength area, and the group fitness room, offering classes such as yoga, barre, mindfulness, and pilates.
Upon entering Mount Mitchell, you’ll instantly notice the abundance of cardio equipment, from treadmills to stairmasters. However, powerlifters and bodybuilders may be surprised by the limited availability of weight machines and power racks. It’s essential to highlight that Mount Mitchell prohibits the dropping of weights, which restricts deadlifts. Consequently, Mount Mitchell may not be the best choice for those primarily interested in weight training.
Moreover, Mount Mitchell has a female-majority patronage, fostering a comfortable environment for women focused on cardio workouts. Given its popularity among female students, it would be prudent to consider extending its operating hours, especially for East-side residents concerned about late-night walks across campus. However, this gym, coincidentally, has the earliest closing time according to the fall schedule, making it less accommodating for night owls or those who prefer evening workouts.
Quinn Recreation Center
Quinn Recreation Center is conveniently located for individuals on the west side of campus, situated uphill from New River Residence Hall and Thunder Hill Residence Hall. This facility offers a well-rounded setup with a cardio area, a group fitness floor, a functional studio, and a weight area. It hosts dance and cycling classes, alongside a fun room featuring a punching bag.
What sets Quinn apart is its suitability for deadlifting, with ample power racks and weight machines available. Additionally, the center offers a range of fitness classes taught by fellow students, making it a great place to engage in group workouts with friends.
For students who prioritize weight training without the need for specialized spaces, Quinn proves to be a better choice over the Student Recreation Center (SRC). As a considerable portion of the student body gravitates towards weight training, Quinn provides essential amenities without the added frills of the SRC.
Student Recreation Center
As the largest gym on campus, the Student Recreation Center boasts three floors and an extensive array of activities. If your interests lie in recreational sports like basketball, badminton, rock climbing, or table tennis, the SRC should be your destination of choice. The SRC features a pool, a yoga and zen room, and equipment for shadow boxing. The top floor houses a cardio area and handheld weights, while the second floor offers power racks and weight machines. The first floor hosts table tennis and a rock climbing wall.
Despite fluctuating hours, the SRC consistently remains open the latest among the options and provides a diverse range of employment opportunities. Unfortunately, deadlifting is prohibited due to concerns about the suitability of the floor for weight dropping. UREC should consider making the necessary adjustments to facilitate this exercise. Nonetheless, the SRC enjoys a strong following due to its size and the wide variety of activities it offers.
In your quest for the ideal gym, consider your goals, your location, and your workout preferences. Each of these three App State facilities has its unique strengths, ensuring that there’s a gym tailored to meet your fitness needs. Make your choice wisely, and let your fitness journey begin.
