
Working out on a Budget
News & Politics January 7, 2012St. Petersburg- A healthy, balanced lifestyle and self-confidence are hidden just a few miles away. Located south of the Gibbs campus on 70th and Burlington Ave. is a fitness center available exclusively to the students of St. Petersburg College, absolutely free of charge.
The SPC gym is a convenient and affordable way for students to “get their fitness on” says one student, Kristina Chronoby. “I’m a babe on a budget.” “With most of the country facing economic hardships, it’s a way to relieve some of the stresses of life without breaking the bank” says Kristina. Most students, like Kristina, were unaware the gym even exists, unless they have taken a physical fitness or weight training class.
The gym offers a wide variety of equipment that caters to the needs of everyone: free weights, dumbbells, machines, and benches. A current student ID is required to use the gym facilities. Proper attire is also a must; sleeveless shirts or sports bras are prohibited unless a shirt is worn over the top. Jeans or jean shorts are also unacceptable. A small hand towel is required to wipe down any equipment you use. The gym is open on Mon-Thurs 8am-7pm, Fri. 8am-3pm, and Sat. 9am-2pm. “Perfect timing to hit the gym before or after classes” says Kristina.
In a recent article on WebMD, researchers indicated that once you begin to exercise regularly, you will discover many more reasons why exercise is so important in improving your quality of life. Exercise not only makes you look and feel amazing, but also reduces stress and helps you sleep better. With students’ intense schedules, sleep is an important and essential factor in life. The St. Petersburg College fitness center is the perfect place for students to do just that, at a price we can all afford, absolutely free.