Florida International University (FIU) Campus Recreation recently opened a new functional training area within its Wellness and Recreation Center. This newly equipped space was designed to focus on holistic fitness.
The development is made possible thanks to a collaboration with FIU’s Student Government Association (SGA). Linda Buonanno, the senior director of Campus Recreation, said she attended a student engagement social where she discussed the idea for the functional training area with Alexander Sutton, the president of SGA.
“Alex sought an opportunity for SGA to back student health and well-being, serving as the catalyst for the partnership,” said Buonanno. “This allowed SGA to contribute half of the funding, matched by Campus Recreation for the other half. SGA’s dedication to engagement is appreciated and their partnership is invaluable. We continue to enhance our facilities, programs and services to enrich the recreational experience for our FIU students.”
Along with the new equipment, the space has been rebranded with new graphics to draw students in. The area is also outfitted with blue turf, adding to the new environment.
“Everything is different about the experience,” said Janet Branch, the associate director of Facilities and Operations. “Students are utilizing the space and equipment in unique ways, while respecting each other’s spaces. They thoroughly enjoy the new area, finding it engaging and motivating. This maximizes their own workout drive and motivation. So many participants are engaging the space.”
Functional Training Area Features
The new area is on the first floor of the Wellness and Recreation Center as visitors enter the building. Offerings of the new functional training area include:
- Airdyne bike.
- Rowers.
- Bulgarian bags.
- Plyosoft boxes.
- Pace clock.
- Kettlebell, medicine balls, dumbbells and slam balls.
- Pro balance trainer.
- Power training ropes.
- Wall rack for foam rollers, mats and aerobic bar vertical storage rack.
“Our goal was to offer activities that cater to a wide range of interests, not just heavy weightlifting, to create a more inclusive and welcoming environment for all participants,” said Buonanno.
Benefits, Reaction and Advice
Buonanno said this addition is a significant step forward for the department with that area of the facility seeing increased traffic and engagement.
“There was a period of about three days where students could catch a glimpse of the area, but it wasn’t ready for opening”, said Buonanno. “This created anticipation and excitement for the new space. They love the new colors and graphics. It’s just a very warm and welcoming space.”
Moving forward, the department is looking to offer small group training classes in the area. The classes will provide opportunities to learn from instructors how to best utilize the equipment for self-directed workouts.
For other departments considering adding similar spaces, Branch recommended looking at peer institutions, understanding the size of your space, ensuring offerings are engaging, educating students on the purpose of a functional training area and setting clear expectations.
“The functional training space has opened up a new opportunity for students to diversify their workouts, enriching their overall recreation experience,” said Buonanno. “Now, we aim to extend these upgrades and enhancements throughout the facility to create a more cohesive, engaging and visually attractive environment. This is just the beginning of several planned improvements.”
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