AU Outdoor Recreation adds new hub to its offerings
By Ana Winters | Staff writer
The Augusta Universty Outdoor Recreation program has added a new addition.
It is a hub on the Health Sciences Campus where students can build connections and take care of their overall well-being. Even if you're someone who is new to fitness or already experienced, the wide range of options ensures there is something for everyone.
The Campus Recreation Center has many opportunities. Inside the facility, students can access “cardio machines, circuit weight equipment, free weights and a full running and walking track,” said Trey Harrison, the director of CRC.
Other features are locker rooms with private showers that provide convenience. This makes it easier for students to fit wellness into their busy class schedules. The CRC also has multiple studios where students can get involved in group fitness classes that are both fun and energizing.
These fitness classes were created to meet all kinds of different interests and skill levels. There are certified trainers who lead sessions such as Yoga, Cycling and WERQ, which is a high-energy hip-hop aerobics class, for students who want to try something more unique.
Virtual classes are available on large studio screens for students who prefer or need more flexibility with their schedules. This allows students to choose when and how they want to work out.
While the fitness center is an important part of Campus Recreation, the program is much broader than just exercise equipment and classes. Intramural Sports and Club Sports give all students a chance to play in a competitive yet friendly setting, without having to be on a varsity sports team.
Then there is also outdoor recreation which allows students off campus and into nature. Together all of these programs help students make connections and experience the social and physical benefits of recreation.
“One of our newest ways for students to be involved at Campus Recreation is through the AU challenge course,” Harrison said. “It is a high-ropes and low-ropes course designed for multiple outcomes.”
This challenge course is at the Center for Outdoor Recreation and Education (CORE). Its grand opening will be on Sept. 25. The location is 601 Old Bailie St. in Augusta, just off Walton Way.
Students will have the opportunity to meet the team who will work there and be able to experience free gear demonstrations, giveaways and games.
This course is intentionally designed to encourage teamwork, communication and leadership. It is a group activity. Students must problem-solve together, step into leadership roles and learn how to recognize and work with everyone’s strengths and weaknesses. These experiences teach valuable skills that can be carried into academic, personal and professional life.
The course allows students to navigate obstacles independently, students build confidence and resilience, while often stepping outside their comfort zones.
The new climbing tower is a part of the CORE expansion, located downtown alongside the challenge course. The tower offers students another way to get active and explore adventure in a safe, affordable and fun environment.
The climbing tower is open on Thursdays from 3–6 p.m. and Fridays from 3–7 p.m., with schedules posted through the university’s events calendar.
Contact Ana Winters at anwinters@augusta.edu.
AU Outdoor Recreation offers ropes-course activities at various levels. At the top of the page, the new climbing tower is a part of the CORE expansion; it is located on the Health Sciences Campus alongside the challenge course. (photos by Ana Winters/the Bell Ringer)
