Point Park’s fitness center, located on the fourth floor of the Student Center, underwent significant changes this summer, giving the facility a much-needed upgrade.
“The changes made to the fitness center will benefit all students and not just athletes,” Dean of Students Keith Paylo said. “All new equipment was purchased based on feedback and recommendations on how to make the fitness center a better place for everyone at the university.”
Renovations were made to the fitness center in June, with updates continuing in early August. Students can expect to find a variety of new equipment, including upgraded treadmills, stationary bikes, and ellipticals, as well as the brand new addition of stair climbers.
The refresh to the fitness center is still not 100% complete, as a few more pieces of new equipment are still on the way.
“We’re excited to be adding running treadmills, squat racks, and benches to round out the space,” Keely Sapienza, the director of SAIL and the Student Center, said. “My current estimate is that these items will arrive and be ready for use by the end of September.”
The new equipment was also accompanied by a fresh coat of paint, turf replacing the carpet in the main area, as well as new and additional storage cubbies.
The renovations were previously overseen by men’s basketball assistant coach Derrick Cook. With Cook’s departure from Point Park, Sapienza is currently in charge of the remaining changes to the fitness center.
“While we are in the process of hiring a new coordinator to fill the vacant position, our student worker team and work-study staff are also assisting in daily operations,” Sapienza said.
On August 20, an email written by Sapienza was sent out to students with an update on the Fitness Center renovations, which include the updated list of “Do’s and Don’t’s” that students are expected to follow when they utilize the space and its equipment.
“The most important part is that students, staff, and faculty take responsibility for cleaning up after themselves (i.e. wiping down equipment, putting items back where they belong, and respecting the space),” Sapienza said. “These small actions make a big difference in protecting the longevity of the equipment so the entire campus community can enjoy the renovations for years to come.”
Sapienza also said in her August 20 email that any violation of the rules may result in a write up from the Student Center staff.
Point Park’s Athletics entering their second year of Mountain East Conference eligibility was a factor in the Fitness Center receiving an upgrade, but Dean Paylo also said it was just time for a change.
“Moving to NCAA Division II did require us to upgrade our fitness and weight areas, and it was time for us to upgrade our facilities at the university,” Paylo said. “This also gave us an opportunity to brand our equipment and show our Pioneer Pride.”
The fitness center is currently open to students, faculty, and staff. Hours are subject to change, but the current hours are listed below.
Mon.-Thurs.: 9am-9pm
Fri.: 10am-8pm
Sat.-Sun.: 12pm-6pm
