University Recreation Program Empowers Women to Build Strength

The strength and conditioning centers at the Carmichael Complex allow students to use multiple pieces of fitness equipment to build their strength. Walking into these spaces one may notice that a small percentage of those using the equipment are women. The problem may not be a lack of desire to perform strength training but rather a lack of confidence in using fitness spaces that are predominantly male. University Recreation held Ladies Night in the Weight Room to empower females by demonstrating proper use of the fitness equipment.

University Recreation implemented Ladies Night in the Weight Room for the first time in 2015 based on feedback suggesting many females feel intimidated to use the weight room. The purpose of the event is to empower participants and build confidence to incorporate the fitness machines into their workout.

Coordinator of Strength and Conditioning Will Craig says University Recreation is trying to “reach the underrepresented population in the gym and provide an outlet for them to feel comfortable using the spaces available.” In order to achieve this goal UREC will be creating more events similar to Ladies Night in the future to empower other underrepresented groups.

At the event female personal trainers demonstrated various strength exercises and encouraged attendees to ask questions relating to fitness and wellness. The personal trainers also emphasized they are available as a resource at any time. Personal trainer Suze Brborovic strongly believes “people should never feel intimidated to do anything because someone will also be doing less and there will always be someone better. Everyone has to start somewhere and it depends on where you want to go.”

Throughout the event there were three different weight room challenges such as performing 6-inch holds and timed planks. Participants were able to obtain information sheets regarding proper form for various strength exercises, how to select a balanced nutritious meal and information on the healthiest options for food in the Talley Market.