At long last, Madison College’s fitness center is again open to students. Any student taking at least one degree credit course can use the center and take advantage of open gym hours in Redsten Gymnasium. 

There are still a couple small, cosmetic changes to make, but nothing that affects functionality. Those using the facility might notice a couple updates to the entrance area or some tweaks to the locker room area, but nothing big. 

Seeing the end of the project is exciting to the athletics and recreation department, according to Bill Kegler, Goodman Sports Complex & Enterprise Manager. Plus, it’ll help shape some of the culture of the school. 

“It’s going to create a really great energy and hopefully provide more wellness for everybody to be able to exercise physically. So it helps them physically and mentally as well. And we’re really excited for people to be able to build a community around this,” said Kegler.  

The area will be used by the general student population, those taking P.E. classes, athletic team members and employees. In years past, the fitness center was also open to anyone in the Madison area, but the main focus now is serving the college community.  

Students work the various desks throughout the facility. While roles are filled for this semester, jobs will open up in the summer and for next fall.  

For those wanting to play some ball in the gymnasium, equipment can be checked out at one of those student-worked desks. Open gym hours are currently 9 a.m. to 11 a.m., then 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. In the gym, proper footwear must be used so that the floor doesn’t get marked up. 

“We want to make sure that they stay quality facilities and clean facilities so people are proud to use (them),” said Kegler.   

To make use of the center, students must bring their OneCard. Lockers are available for single day use, but locks aren’t provided. 

There are also cubbies available, but the college isn’t responsible for any goods stolen from there.  

When someone walks into the facility, they need to grab a bottle of disinfectant and towel. The department asks that people sanitize once they’re done using their equipment.  

The fitness center is open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. during the week. On Saturday, it’s open from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. with Sunday’s hours being 8 a.m. to 11 a.m.