Revisions and additions to CapU’s Athletic Department programs take place this fall
Rachel D’Sa // Arts and Culture Editor
Each year the CapU’s Athletics Department offers a variety of amenities to students and members of the school’s community. These include drop-in sports, intramurals, fitness classes and access to a full gym – all at little to no cost.
Various styles of yoga classes have been offered in previous years and yoga has proved itself quite the popular activity, explained Athletics and Recreation Officer CJ Pentland. “We have fully-trained teachers leading classes that are a fraction of the cost of a class at a yoga studio, and they’re a great way to relax and recharge during the day,” he said.
Adding to the variety this fall semester, the department is offering a new style of yoga that aids in removing emotional and mental blocks while awakening practitioner senses. This new Forrest Yoga course is scheduled from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m. every Tuesday – right when minds and bodies typically start to tire out due to the day’s stressful tasks.
Athletics is also offering an energy-packed cardio and strength training class through High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT). These exciting classes are scheduled to take place on Wednesdays from 11:45 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.. You may recognize the instructor’s name, as the classes are led by Andrea Eby, a marketing professor in the School of Business.
The strong turnout for drop-in sports has also continued. “The gymnasium has been well-attended each afternoon so far this week,” said Pentland. He noted that basketball seems to have a slight edge in popularity with the students.
Since the large renovation last summer, the Sportsplex weight room has also seen its share of active students through the afternoons and evenings.
Additionally, the department plans on organizing a one-day Ultimate Frisbee or Flag Football tournament on campus. Pentland encourages students to give their feedback and leave suggestions for the department so they can provide them with tournaments and events that fit their interests. “We’ve been gauging student interest throughout the start of the year and have received positive feedback, so this is something we’re hoping to grow,” he said. The new residences will also be hosting organized events and activities for its gymnasium.
The best part of all of this? Students don’t need to worry about bringing any equipment besides a proper pair of gym shoes and their student ID. During racquet sports sessions, the facility attendant will set up badminton nets and ping pong tables, while IDs can get students the access to rent out whatever equipment they need for any of the offered drop-in sports.
Students of all athletic backgrounds are encouraged to attend drop-ins and intramurals as it’s a chance to maintain and improve their abilities while making new connections in the community. Sports provide endless benefits including improved teamwork and mental health and wellness, while reducing stress levels. Pentland stated the department wants to get all students involved on campus by taking advantage of all free or low-cost amenities. “As a department, we really want to promote health and wellness across campus.” Whether it’s before, in-between or after classes, it’s important to take the time to work on personal health, and with CapU’s Athletic Department, it couldn’t be easier or more affordable.