The Best Places to Workout on Campus
Graphic by Abigail Lynn Fay
Whether you’re an active gym-goer, or you’ve recently decided to take up working out, we’d like to recommend a few places to exercise your butt off. Although it can be super awkward sometimes to run outside, it can be really rewarding too, thanks to the natural dose of vitamin D, the fresh air, and the ability to run actual distances rather than staying in place on a treadmill. If you’re one to opt for a big challenge during your exercise, we’d suggest heading to Walnut Park, and taking advantage of the surrounding hills. We’re talking Marshall Street, Waverly Avenue, East Adams Street, and Harrison Street. The best part about this spot is, you can choose how steep you’d like your hill to be, and if it gets to be too much, you can go on a light jog through Walnut Park for a break.
If you’d prefer a route that is a bit on the easier side, while still somewhat challenging, try to run some of the length of Comstock Avenue! It runs long, so you can absolutely decide how many miles you’d like to run, as well as the accompanying scenery. Personally, we enjoy the stretch from Ernie Davis Hall to the ComArt Building. This is a specific length, so choose if you’d like to run more or less. Granted Comstock Ave is arguably the most scenic location, if you're one that is embarrassed by running in public, maybe steer clear of this run. However, we strongly believe that everyone can muster the confidence to run like they’re the only person on campus when music is blasting in their ears.
If you’re a sucker for nature, take a jog in Thornden Park. Make sure it's during the day, though, or better yet with a running buddy. The location is gorgeous, there’s a lot to see, and the place could possibly be the prettiest during Autumn. Bonus points for the playground! Hurry up, it’s almost winter!
Those of you that would rather go to an indoor gym, we have our pros and cons about the gyms on campus. Barnes obviously ranks the highest, thanks to the recent renovation and plethora of amenities, including an extensive collection of weights, an indoor pool, and a full on track. The location is a bit of a con, depending on where you live. Another place we love to work out is the Ernie Davis gym, which might be in a better location than Barnes, depending on your housing. Plus, there’s a bunch of machines for all different types of workouts, as well as a separate room for yoga. The last place we’d like to give a “shout out” to is the Marshall Square Mall gym. This one is great because of its location and surroundings, including Subway, Salt City, and, obviously, Marshall Street.
Regardless of the workout you choose, make sure you’re equipped with a fire playlist, a substantial amount of water, and appropriate attire. Happy exercising!