Gym attendance at College of the Rockies Cranbrook campus has increased, with the addition of cutting-edge sporting gear and recreational equipment.
The college's campus has replaced its aging and damaged equipment with brand new multi-press, squat rack and leg extension strength training machines; climb mill and elliptical cardio machines; and functional training equipment like bands, balls and mats.
It also has a storage room filled with sporting equipment for lawn games, slo-pitch and pickleball.
The college has reported that Cranbrook campus gym usage has increased by 50 per cent since bringing in new equipment in October. There are 200 students currently living on-campus and hundreds that attend daily classes.
“The equipment was outdated and rusty, which kept students away. Many chose to go elsewhere in town to workout," said kinesiology instructor and program coordinator Jodie Pickering.
The new equipment will not just serve students' recreational needs, but also be integrated into the college's kinesiology and adventure tourism programs. New mountaineering and ski gear, like helmets, ropes and axes, were sent to the Golden campus for the Adventure Tourism Business Operations program, and two whitewater kayaks and some climbing gear went to Mountain Adventure Skills Training Program at the Fernie campus.
“Students now use the same equipment they will encounter in their professional careers. It’s customizable, adjustable and clean, which makes learning more effective,” said Pickering.
The college's men and women's Avalanche volleyball teams have been steady users of the new equipment.
“Preparing for our volleyball season, and throughout the year, maintaining our strength and fitness has been an important part of our success. Having the new equipment in our gym has made training much more enjoyable and comfortable” said kinesiology student Reece Clarke, who is also a libero for the Avalanche.
“New equipment boosts team morale and helps our players grow. Our motto is ‘keep climbing’ and the upgraded gym supports that mission," added Avalanche coach Cisco Farrero.
