DEAR EDITOR:
As a personal trainer, kinesiology student, and someone trying to stay healthy and active while balancing college, I appreciate the significance of physical fitness in maintaining both mental and physical well-being.
However, I believe that the current policy limiting access to our campus gyms and fitness rooms to primarily athletic teams and kinesiology classes is not only unfair but also shortsighted. It’s time to reconsider who should have access to these essential resources.
The benefits of physical activity are well-documented and extend beyond just athletic performance. Research consistently shows that regular exercise improves mental health, reduces stress, and enhances cognitive function- all critical factors for success in academia.
Yet, the current restricted access to fitness spaces creates a barrier for many students who could greatly benefit from such resources.
As the demands of coursework increase, many students find themselves struggling to balance their academic responsibilities with their health, and offering equitable access to fitness facilities would help alleviate some of that pressure.
Again, I am a kinesiology student and understand that both kinesiology students and athletic teams have specific needs for these spaces, and I don’t disagree with the importance of ensuring they have room to train.
However, this should not come at the expense of the general student body, many of whom may not have the resources or time to access off-campus gyms. Fitness should not be an exclusive privilege but a shared resource available to all students, regardless of their major or extracurricular involvement.
By providing equal access to these spaces, the college would not only foster a more inclusive environment but would also promote overall student well-being.
In a world where mental health challenges are on the rise, we should be doing everything possible to support our students’ well-being.
It’s time to open up these valuable campus resources to every student who wishes to use them.
Access to fitness facilities should be a priority for everyone, not just a select group. As we continue to navigate the demands of higher education, let’s remember that student health, both physical and mental, is essential to success.
