February 20, 2012

Rec Center planning special activities for Feb. 22

by Christi Mathis

CARBONDALE, Ill. -- In celebration of National Recreational Sports and Fitness Day, the Student Recreation Center at Southern Illinois University Carbondale is offering special activities, classes, demonstrations and more on Wednesday, Feb. 22.

It all happens from 5 to 7 p.m. and the programming is open to all who use the facilities.  Regular entrance rules and pricing applies.  But, there is no additional cost for any of the day’s special events.  Organizers say it’s all just for fun to promote health, wellness and a good time.

Check out the martial arts demonstration and experience Shotokan Karate, Tai Chi and Wing Chun Kung Fu and Youn Wha Ryu.   Stop by the Saluki Strength Room and try your hand at one of the weight room challenges.  They include the “Big Dawg,” 50 Burpees for times, pull-ups, wall sit and the plank.  Floor leaders will supervise the challenges.

The TRX Suspension Training challenges, in the Court 4 track area, include Burpees, atomic push-ups, TRX crunch and TRX master challenge. 

Or, join in Rock ‘N Ride.  It’s a group fitness/rock climbing experience in the fitness area.  You can spin on a cycle or climb the rock wall accompanied by some rock music inspiration.  Grab a Clif all-natural protein bar and a Rock Star Energy Drink along the way and visit the Wellness Center Zazebo for free blood pressure checks and valuable information. 

There will also be a giant group fitness class on Courts 4 and 5 with favorite instructors leading the way.  The class schedule includes:

            •  Warmup with Erin, 5-5:10 p.m.

            •  Xtreme Fit with Misty, 5:10-5:30 p.m.

            •  TurboKick with Emily, 5:30-5:50 p.m.

            •  Zumba with Kelsey and Grace, 5:50-6:30 p.m.

            •  Core with MaryBeth, 6:30-6:50 p.m.

            •  Cooldown with Erin, 6:50-7 p.m.

The National Intramural-Recreational Sports Association (NIRSA), online at http://www.nirsa.org, each year marks Feb. 22, the organization’s founding date in 1950, as Recreational Sports and Fitness Day.  The goal is to highlight the positive benefits of recreational sports, fitness and wellness.  SIU Carbondale is an institutional member of the organization that dedicates itself to improving the quality of life and communities through recreational sports and intramural opportunities at universities, colleges, military installations, public recreational programs, correctional institutions and private and non-profit organizations. 

For more information about the University’s event or the many services and activities of Recreational Sports and Services, look online at www.reccenter.siu.edu or call 618/453-1277.