Throughout this past winter, I’ve found that staying active has helped me in many ways. It’s motivated me to stay on top of work, helped my sleep schedule, and kept me happy and alert. Whether for exercise, social, or mental health reasons, there’s always a way to stay active! I’ve divided these activities into three categories: facilities, classes, and groups. I strongly urge any incoming Obie to participate in as many activities as possible, to see what community is the most fun for them!
Facilities:
The Philips Gym is pretty all-encompassing in facilities, and I love how accessible it is to athletes and non-athletes alike. If cardio is your thing, the first-floor fitness center has you covered with treadmills, three kinds of bikes, rowing machines, and ellipticals. If lifting is your thing, there are more than enough weights to go around. I’ve had so much fun trying new exercises with machines downstairs and free weights upstairs.
There are also facilities used for sports that anyone can use. The Carr pool has ten 25-yard lanes and a pair of one-meter and three-meter springboards. While primarily for the swim and dive program, there are swim open hours anyone can attend. The same goes for tennis courts, squash courts, and the yoga room.
The last facility in the Philips Gym is the rock climbing wall, a favorite of many. Watch out, because a lot of Obies are dangerously skilled climbers. I’ve only been a few times and was woefully out-skilled. My realistic goal is to reach intermediate level by the time I graduate.
Classes:
Oberlin offers many classes that are free for Obies to sign up for. Whether it’s spin, boxing, yoga, or lifting, there is always a new skill to be learned. Classes range throughout proficiency levels and are always judgment-free environments. Some courses are taught by professional instructors, and others student instructors, my favorite being the latter.
Groups:
If physical activity and community are two things you’re looking for, I would recommend joining a club sport or dance team! Whether you like soccer, ultimate frisbee, rugby, or quidditch, club sports are a great way to make new friends. If sports aren’t your thing, there are also multiple dance teams for all levels.
