The Independent Student Newspaper of St. John's University

The Torch

The Independent Student Newspaper of St. John's University

The Torch

The Independent Student Newspaper of St. John's University

The Torch

Cutting the winter blues at St. John’s

As the New Year marches on, students try to get in shape quickly and at a low cost. Whether you are trying to keep your New Year’s Resolution by hitting the gym or getting involved with an intramural sport, St. John’s has a multitude

of options to help you.

Head over to Carnesseca and swipe your Storm Card for the ultimate fitness experience. The gym facility offers various cardio machines such as treadmills and ellipticals, while still offering numerous strength-training options. Everything is separated in an organized and efficient way, making it easy for students to

have a great workout.

There are two floors in the gym. The first floor consists of mostly strength training equipment – free weights and weight machines. As you head up the stairs, you can go to the left for more weight equipment or to the right for cardio machines. If you choose strength training, the facility offers various machines to build biceps or tone thighs. On the other side, treadmills, ellipticals, Stairmasters and numerous cardio machines offer students the option to cut weight and shape up.

If working out alone doesn’t appeal to you, take advantage of the group fitness classes through campus recreation. This is a great alternative to long, stagnant workouts. With a variety of new and fun classes, students are guaranteed to have

a great workout experience.

For a more intense experience try Karate, Spin, Judo or Boxing.

“I love the spin classes, they offer such a good workout,” says student Alexandra Finnie, who takes advantage

of the classes weekly.

 If you’re looking for something a bit less aggressive, try Yoga, Pilates, Abs or Cross-Fit. Finally, for a more dance-oriented workout, try out Hip-Hop, Zumba, African Dance, or Belly Dance. The class schedule is available online, running from noon until 8:00 p.m. on most days. Most gym memberships cost around $50 a month, while the gym facilities in Carnesseca, complete with fitness classes are free for St. John’s students.

Self-Defense classes are a great offering from Campus Recreation, as most defense schools charge $50-$100 a month for instruction. All women should look into taking a self-defense class before graduating, as it can be an important asset later in life. Living in an urban area, and working as independent people, this is a great background to acquire.

Perhaps you’re looking for a more sports-oriented workout. From basketball to softball, intramural sports teams offer a group atmosphere which is both competitive and challenging.

 Campus Recreation describes intramural sports as “a fun but competitive program that gives students the chance to play and have the chance to compete both regionally and nationally against other inter-collegiate teams.”

Numerous students have become involved with intramural sports in an effort to become actively involved and

meet new people.

A healthy diet, made possible through numerous dining options on and off campus, is also a great way to quick start your routine. Montgoris offers an extensive salad bar, the café’ in Marillac offers soups and multigrain sandwiches and wraps, and the D’Angelo Center is a great place to grab a coffee or yogurt.

 “I usually go to the Law School café for breakfast, they have really good egg sandwiches. Just ask for wheat bread and no cheese, and you’re good to go,”

says junior Jehan Ibrahem.

If you’re looking for something more personalized, visit the office of Wellness Education or consult the “Nutrition Newsletter” for helpful handouts

for eating-on-the-go.

Small steps guarantee success for a healthy lifestyle and St. John’s has all of the resources to succeed. Making small changes such as walking to campus or taking the stairs are a guaranteed way to ensure results. From group classes to a resourceful athletic facility filled with cardio and strength-training equipment – there’s no excuse to be

out of shape this winter.

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