14
SPORT
The renovated UWC gym has become more popular since it was re-opened in July.
Students enjoy revamped UWC gym
E
ven late on a Tuesday morning when the academic project is in full swing at the University, the refurbished UWC gym is filled with students working out. “If you think this is full, come at 4.30 in the afternoon and you will see how busy this gym is. Some members have to queue to get in,” says health and fitness coordinator Andrew Wrankmore. Since it re-opened in mid-July after a two-year closure as part of the UWC Sports Stadium’s multi-million rand upgrade, the gym has seen membership almost double from the initially expected 800 to 1 400 members. The gym, in the upper level of the revamped stadium, boasts twice the space of the old gym and scenic views of the University and neighbouring communities. It operates from 5am until 8pm on weekdays, with two two-hour cleaning breaks at 9am and 3pm respectively. On UWC takes pride in...
Saturdays the gym is open from 7am until 3pm and from 7am to 12pm on Sundays and public holidays. Although 99% of members are students, the gym is also open to staff. Subject to restrictions, the general public and sports clubs also have limited access. UWC guests on campus for conferences, sporting events and other events may make use of the gym for the duration of their stay. Among the services offered are cardio, weights and functional training facilities, interval training/bootcamptype sessions, aerobic/group classes, and quarterly wellness days. Users are guided by personal instructors. Eleven floor instructors who are sports science honours students assist with operating equipment and training advice. Upon request, differently abled members are given personal support during their training by
Offering A Holistic Student Experience
gym instructors. “We strive by all means to ensure that members get the best advice. At the same time we provide the students with practical experience for their studies,” Wrankmore explains. Students from academic departments such as the Department of Sport, Recreation and Exercise Science, the Interdisciplinary Centre of Excellence for Sports Science and Development, the Department of Physiotherapy and the Department of Dietetics and Nutrition can use the facility for academic research, practical work and other academicrelated activities. Wrankmore notes that although the gym is an exercise facility, it has also become a social gathering space that provides a good atmosphere for members to mix and mingle. “It is a nice alternative to academic life on campus.” MG
Our Teaching & Learning Focus
Our Relevant Research & Innovation