It is fall semester, and students have flocked back to Tech. For many students it is a return from summer vacations at home, and for a lucky few it is their first semester at college. Coming to college can be that first taste of freedom. Some students turn towards partying, unhealthy eating, and a variety of unhealthy activities to relieve the stress that invariably comes with college. Fortunately, there are other ways to play and have a healthy life while in college.

Here, at the Campus Recreation Center (CRC), we invite Georgia Tech students to come and play seven days a week. Exercise of any kind - from a simple walk around the track to vigorous weight training sessions - is beneficial for the body and mind. A regular workout routine helps to relieve stress and keeps the metabolism boosted, providing continuous energy throughout the day. It is the goal of the CRC to help students find a "regular" workout that fits their way of life.

The CRC is a comprehensive, state-of-the-art facility featuring the following: an indoor track, six basketball courts, three studios, an Olympic pool (built for the 1996 Summer Olympics) as well as a smaller leisure pool, racquetball and squash courts, a three-story climbing wall, and more. Our fully equipped fitness center provides everything from basic free weights to high-tech equipment incorporating the latest fitness trends including iPod docks and programmable personalized workouts. However, the CRC is more than just a massive building full of shiny equipment; it is also equipped with staff dedicated to helping students discover the activities that make them happy.

Newcomers to the CRC might find the fitness center a little overwhelming - we know this! To help students get started, the CRC provides monthly fitness orientations to familiarize students with the different pieces of equipment. A variety of group fitness classes are also offered, ranging from stationary cycling, yoga, martial arts, belly dancing, and more.

The CRC has an extensive intramurals program and sport clubs for those interested in group sports. Intramurals and club programs provide fun competition for students whether they are just trying their hand at group sports or played Varsity during high school and want to continue in college. The Outdoor Recreation (ORGT) program is the perfect break from the daily grind, providing trips throughout the year in backpacking, caving, whitewater paddling, sea kayaking, mountain biking, and more.

Part of balancing the development of the mind comes from keeping the body active. The CRC provides an ever changing and invigorating array of programs and equipment that are just waiting to be put to good use. Full-time students can access the facility for FREE! If you've not heard your student mention the CRC, encourage them to check it out. The benefits are just waiting to be reaped.