News

Feel great in ‘08 at MU Sport

[ The University of Melbourne Voice Vol. 2, No. 2  18 February - 3 March 2008 ]

By James Garland

If you’re like most people, you’ve no doubt made at least one New Year’s resolution for 2008. Perhaps you hope to improve your fitness, energy levels and social networks or maybe your goals for the new year include a general decrease in body weight and/or stress levels. Either way, you’re not alone.

The answer to fulfilling some of your desires may be just a stone-throw away from your office. Melbourne University Sport’s facilities, conveniently located on campus, are available to all students, staff and graduates – and we’ve got programs to suit everybody.

Flexible fitness memberships cover unlimited use of the fully supervised fitness centre, indoor heated six-lane 25m lap pool and various group fitness classes. Thirty-nine affiliated sporting, recreational and instructional clubs are available to join, and you can enjoy a range of indoor and outdoor courts available for casual hire.

It’s common knowledge that some of the benefits of regular exercise include improved fitness, strength and energy levels as well as weight and/or fat loss, all of which contribute to a decrease in disease risk factors. What some people aren’t aware of is the cathartic benefit of exercise. Exercise is not just a remedy for physical ailments, but also helps to better manage everyday stress levels.

As long-time patron Barney Cooney says: “It’s essential that you make full use of these great facilities as physical activity promotes an increased quality of life and helps you overcome injury and illness as you age.”

The 73-year-old lawyer and former politician is a Melbourne University Alumni (Arts/Law) and still practises law.

“Not only does coming to the gym make me feel good, I also believe that it is the reason why I am still so physically capable in everyday life”, says Mr. Cooney.

Shouldn’t some form of exercise be part of your weekly routine? Making use of the University’s facilities is a great way to look after yourself. And you’ll certainly be in good company – some 1200 new fitness memberships and renewals have been taken out since last December. In addition, strength and fitness staff have also instructed new and renewing members through more than 300 exercise programs, fitness assessments and body compositions in the same two-month period.

This time of year, when the University’s facilities are relatively quiet, is an ideal time to get active. Melbourne University Sport’s staff and facilities are ready to help you on your way. Make sure you feel great in ‘08! Good Health!