Fall is the time to hit the books, but for many U students, it’s also time to hit the gym.
With classes back in session, many students lack the free time they enjoyed during the summer. As a result, it can be difficult to find a balance between coursework, jobs and personal health. The demanding hours of being a student sometimes leaves little time for personal health and wellness. But to some students on campus, health is more than just a priority — it has become a permanent part of their daily schedules.
Grant Saetrum, a sophomore in chemistry, and Parker Tipton, a sophomore in finance, use the on-campus Einar Nielsen Field House to stay fit and regularly work out there in between classes. It’s free to students and located just above Rice-Eccles Stadium on lower campus.
Saetrum said he is intent on staying healthy this semester, no matter how busy his schedule gets.
“You definitely just feel better,” he said. “[Working out] keeps you feeling more confident, more in shape and healthier.”
Tipton enjoys the convenience of the Field House but has a different opinion about the facility itself.
“It’s hot and so crowded,” Tipton said. “Especially during the beginning of the [school] year and in January.”
Cheri Jenkins, associate director of Campus Recreation Services, said the Field House has periods throughout the day when it can get crowded.
“The busiest time is probably 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.,” Jenkins said.
Despite this, Jenkins said the Field House provides a great alternative to other local gyms. Students can do more than just work out at the Field House — they can also study, take fitness classes and hang out with friends.
The Field House is one of the older buildings on campus, but construction of the new George S. Eccles Student Life Center is on track, and the center is slated to open in January 2015. The building, which is projected to be over 180,000 square feet, will replace the Field House with more space and amenities for students seeking to stay physically fit.
Other options for students looking to stay healthy this semester are abundant. Aside from going to the gym, many students also enjoy participating in outdoor activities, such as hiking, skiing and running. Students can check out the Campus Recreation Services website www.campusrec.utah.edu for a complete list of resources available to help students stay active and balance personal health with their studies.
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