New look and offerings for the JSU Recreation Complex

Jenna Siddiqui
MC 301 Practicum/Staff 

More has changed at the JSU Recreation Complex than the name and management.

The complex’s changes are the responsibility of Centers, a new corporation that originated in DePaul University in Chicago, Ill.  The name is not the only thing that has been altered in this facility.  The entire front half containing equipment has been organized by machine, cardio and weights.

There are many new group fitness classes offered including: strength, combo (strength and cardio), dance (Zumba and Hip Hop Hustle), cycling, low impact (Pilates) and cardio (kickboxing).

Aschira White, an employee at the Complex, thinks that under new management, it is a better overall experience.

“The set up, management, system and programs are different.  TB Ellis and the track and field are a part of the complex and programs will be held there as well.  We also extended our hours and they are available at the front desk,” said White.

White attends the Zumba class herself and thinks it is a fun workout and she is definitely going again.

“The older people usually come for the cycling classes.  The Zumba class is a popular class for the girls and the guys mainly come for basketball.  Students usually come after 5 p.m. and I’ve seen a noticeable increase of people coming to the complex,” said White.

The complex features: three basketball courts, a three lane pool with deep end access, four fitness studios, three racquetball courts, a squash court, wellness suite, outside track, two intramural fields and 12 tennis courts.

A’lexsis Ford, a junior therapeutic recreation major from Dallas, Texas, utilizes many of the features the complex offers including the track, racquetball courts, weights and machines.

“I would definitely use the pool if they had one in the same facility as opposed to walking to another building.  I do hear good things about the programs and would like to try yoga, Pilates, cycling and the abs class,” said Ford.

Ford has tried to come to a cycling class but is confused about the times and wishes the schedules, times and cancelations were broadcasted and communicated better.

Mikayla Rolle, a junior therapeutic recreation major from Burlington, Ky., goes to the complex four to five times a week.

“My favorite classes are the 30-45 minute cycling and Zumba classes.  They are hard core workouts that make you sweat.  As a volleyball player here at JSU, I like to stay in shape on my own so I like these diverse classes they offer,” said Rolle.

Rolle likes the new look but she dislikes the name change and rearrangement of the workout machines.

“I encourage everyone to come not to just workout, but to engage yourself in recreational activities,” said Rolle.

The JSU Recreation Complex has surveys available to make sure they accommodate all needs of students and members.  This includes preferable times, days, length of classes and other interests.  New equipment is scheduled to arrive in April and also new programs such as yoga and massage therapy.  For the complete schedule, visit http://10.14.12.245/paytoncenter/.