Guests entering the East Gym this semester will notice a major equipment change: The alcove next to the cardio machines, which used to contain the Hoist machine line of workout equipment, now contains a large jungle gym-like contraption surrounded by cryptic diagrams on the floor.
This new training system is called the Synrgy360. It includes a boxing heavy bag, staggered monkey bars, battle ropes and a series of bars for dips and pullups. Markings on the floor provide visual cues for exercises that do not require the new equipment like long jumps and activities with medicine balls.
The Hoist machine line that used to be in this space has been moved next to the free weights to replace the Cybex machines, which have been traded back in to the provider for a discount on the new equipment. Jenna Moore, assistant director of fitness and wellness for Campus Recreational Services, said that it was inefficient to have two full sets of weight machines.
“Functional training zones and equipment like the Synrgy360 are becoming popular in many high profile fitness facilities and universities across the country,” Moore said. “We decided to offer something that was completely different than all the other equipment we had so our members could continue to expand and improve upon their fitness in new and exciting ways.”
However, not all students like the new setup and equipment. Matt Kollegger, a junior majoring in psychology, said that he does not think the placement of the machines is optimal.
“It’s definitely not as good as before,” Kollegger said. “There’s not as much room anymore. And I feel like they got rid of some good machines.”
Harry Brodsky, a senior majoring in accounting, said that the equipment will divide the gym clientele.
“[The equipment] is a nice addition to the gym, but it seems to have brought out two types of people: those who don’t know how to use it and those who are intimidated to use it,” Brodsky said.
According to John Premo, a fitness manager at the East Gym and a second-year graduate student studying business administration, the new system gives more options in FitSpace for students trying to stay or get in shape.
“It is a lot of functional training, great for a lot of body weight exercises and now the amount of exercises that you can do in this facility is almost limitless,” Premo said.
Moore said that there were a number of free demonstrations in the beginning of the semester where trainers taught students how to use the new equipment. In addition, there will be a fitness class during the spring semester built around the Synrgy360 set. She said that students with further questions could ask gym staff or schedule a one-on-one session with a personal trainer.
Cindy Cowden, the senior associate director of the East Gym, said that the new equipment was affordable due to the trade-off of old equipment. She said that further changes and machine replacements will continue into next semester.
“This summer we will be replacing all of the cardio equipment as part of a three year capital replacement plan,” Cowden wrote in an email. “Students returning to FitSpace in August 2015 will find a new variety of cardio machines available including old favorites and some pieces that will be new to the facility.
However, Sam Catalano, a senior double-majoring in marketing and cinema, said that the upgrades do not go far enough.
“It seems like Campus Rec is trying to use bells and whistles to cover up the fact that we need additional gym space,” Catalano said. “It looks cool, but you know what’s cooler? Another gym.”