What the Rec? Answers to Your GVSU Recreation Questions
Updated on August 26, 2019
Written by Leah Erben
Let’s be honest: the gym can be intimidating. However, you might find it easier to stick to your goals of being active if you learn what GVSU Recreation really has to offer. They offer multiple university resources and services for you: fitness, wellness, sports, outdoor adventures, swim lessons, CPR and First Aid training, informal recreation, and social and employment opportunities at all levels of ability, competition, and interest. Working out can be fun, and it’s all about finding what works best for you! Here are a few of the resources available:
Informal Recreation
GVSU has all of the essential equipment: ellipticals, treadmills, stair climbers, rowing machines, weight machines, and more. There are two levels of fitness equipment, a three-court gymnasium, a running track, multipurpose courts, instructional fitness studios, weight rooms, a pool, and gender-inclusive locker rooms. It’s yours to explore! Access to the Rec Center is free to all GVSU students (just don’t forget your student ID to enter)!
Club Sports/Intramural Sports
GVSU has a massive list of Club Sports, ranging from highly competitive to recreational options, such as baseball, lacrosse, softball, dance, soccer, dodgeball, basketball, volleyball, Qudditch, and fencing. Tryout information can be found online, or if you’re interested in playing, complete the RECRUIT ME form on the website. If you’re looking for less time and few commitments but still want to play sports, consider getting involved in Intramural Sports. Joining a team will help you get active, will allow you to develop lasting friendships, and also allows you to try something new! You can start a team on their website!
Climbing Center
Did you know that GVSU has a climbing wall? And that open climb hours are offered a few days a week? And that it’s free with your student ID? Come solo or grab a friend, and go for a climb! If you’re completely new to rock climbing, that’s okay! They’ll show you the ropes at open climb, or you can take technical lessons with trained staff to learn specific skills related to climbing, self-rescue, or top-managed systems. You can be a professional climber in no time! The Climbing Center is also open for booking group sessions and team outings! Read about the Climbing Center and come check it out today!
Outdoor Adventures
GVSU Recreation hosts a series of outdoor programs, events, and trips that help you learn new skills, challenge you, and take you to the beautiful outdoors. You could take a snowshoeing class and spend some time exploring the snowscape of the Ravines. You could venture off campus to the annual Ice Festival in Munising, where you can climb the picturesque frozen waterfalls. Adventure is out there, and the possibilities extend far beyond the physical walls of the Recreation facilities. Learn about the adventures waiting for you.
Now that you know about all the amazing resources through GVSU Recreation, there’s no reason you can’t stick to your goals! It’s never too late to begin a healthier lifestyle.
For more information on all of the programs, services, and events offered by GVSU Recreation — like training services, the bike shop, swimming lessons, or CPR, First Aid, and AED training — check out the website.