Cardio Studio offers new workout option

The Student Recreational Sports Center recently opened a new Cardio Studio, funded by the Division of Recreational Sports. The room, which was made available Oct. 10, was created to give students a place to relax and feel more comfortable while working out. \n"Not everyone likes the hustle and bustle of our busier strength and conditioning areas," said Theresa Bladen, assistant director of Fitness Training, "so it was important to provide an exercise environment that would allow participants another option." \nThe Cardio Studio, which includes two upright bikes, four recumbent bikes, four elliptical crosstrainers, two treadmills and six stair steppers, is significantly smaller than the 6,000-square-foot main SRSC workout area. The equipment is both new and used. Two Precor treadmills and the elliptical crosstrainer were purchased in August especially for the Cardio Studio. The elliptical crosstrainer was made possible through IU Student Association's donation in collaboration with the Student Recreational Sports Association.\n"IUSA is committed to enhancing many aspects of student life that would enrich one's collegiate experience," said Casey Cox, student body president. "In today's society, wellness is a bigger priority than it often was in the past and we support and appreciate strides made toward improving well-being."\nThe new Cardio Studio is across from the Cyclefit Studio on the main floor. \n"The Cardio Studio is open to both men and women, but mostly women use it," Bladen said. "That's the trend in the industry. Women tend to focus more on cardio than men do."\nThe cardio studio purposely left out mirrors in the room for students that do not like them when they are working out. The Cardio Studio also includes plants, educational posters and possibly a mural in the future, which is unique to the main part of the SRSC. The mural was thought of in order to brighten up the room, but the focus of the mural has not yet been discussed, Bladen said. \nThere is also a television set that is mounted in the room and can be seen from all of the equipment. \nThe general feedback from many students is that they love the room, yet it is still a little early to tell, Bladen said. \n"I use the cardiac studio to practice training two freshman students," said senior Kate Buschkopf, a strength training and conditioning consultant. "It is small and comfortable enough to take my time and actually help the students and myself learn and not get discouraged." \n-- Contact staff writer Tara Morris at talmorri@indiana.edu.