The second phase of renovations at the Recreation Centre are complete and the new, modern facilities at the Doon campus are now open.
The newly renovated fitness centre opens on Monday, February 22.
Starting February 22, students have access to an expanded 35,000 square foot fitness centre and student lounges - all part of a $16 million refurbishment of the Centre that started in September 2014. The design for the space was developed following a student survey in 2013 to determine what student needs and expectations were for health and wellness facilities. The first phase of renovations saw an upgrade to the existing gymnasium.
Wrapped in floor to ceiling glass to create a bright, welcoming environment, the new fitness centre includes space for stretching and core work, cardio machines and free weights. The state-of-the-art equipment is all new and includes a functional training cage, as well as cordless cardio machines. Three new multi-purpose rooms have also been created for fitness classes.
“I think students are going to be ecstatic about the new space,” said Jeff Scherer, president of Conestoga’s student association. “We realize the full renovations won’t be finished, but what has been completed is an absolute improvement on previous facilities. I think those students who can remember the Recreation Centre before the renovations are going to be shocked by what has transformed in this space.”
The fitness centre is the second phase of the recreation centre renovations to be completed.
“The lounge upstairs will be a great new space for students to hang out, socialize and take part in some great activities,” added Scherer. “There will also be a Pita Pit in this space that will offer healthy meal options along with smoothies and weekly specials. We believe students are going to love the space and the furniture solutions that will be available.”
The last phase of the renovations includes the transformation of the Centre’s old ice rink, which will be repurposed into a triple gymnasium. The space will be outfitted with hardwood sprung flooring to accommodate basketball, volleyball and badminton and the overhead space of the gymnasium will feature a four-lane running track. This last phase of the Recreation Centre is expected to be complete by the end of the term.
In addition to the meeting the health and fitness needs of students, Conestoga’s Recreation Centre will also serve as a community resource with gymnasium and facility rentals available. A number of community groups have already reserved the facilities for upcoming competitions and tournaments.
Access to the Centre is available through east entrance, near the E wing.