Over 90 people signed up to enroll in the new O-W Community Fitness Center which was open to new members on April 18. Owen-Withee Athletic Director Hailey Kadolph and OWHS bookkeeper Stacy Rasmussen greeted new members, helped them sign up and handed out the key FOBs. Visitors were handed a fitness center consent form and emergency contact form.

Kayla Rasmussen demonstrates how to strengthen your core and back on this simple piece of fitness equipment.

Training sessions were held this night to briefly demonstrate how to use the weight and cardio machines. Coaches Terry Laube and Albert Goerlitz led the training with the assistance of student athletes demonstrating each piece of equipment. Laube gave general training tips but advised that those interested in weight or cardio training get further instruction through a fitness app. He also said that if students are working out at the time, they would be happy to help or answer questions.

Coach Terry Laube explains the correct stance for lifting as Kayla Rasmussen demonstrates.

Currently there is no access to restroom or a water fountain in the fitness center – construction is not complete on these facilities. Members of the fitness center are asked to follow some simple expectations: always ask, clean up after yourself, be mindful of your surroundings, dress appropriately and treat all members and equipment with respect. Children under the age of 14 are not allowed in the center and no children may be left unattended in any room or hallway of the fitness center or wait near exercise equipment while their parents exercise. The handbook further explains fitness center etiquette, violations and reasons for suspending membership.

The bright new fitness center is equipped with state-of-the-art weightlifting equipment.

Hour of operation are Monday through Friday from 4:30-7:30 a.m. and 3:30-10:30 p.m. Weekends hours are from 4:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. Summer hours are May 25-August 25 4:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. Holidays will operate on the weekday schedule. Information pertaining to changes in the hours, closures and special events will be posted on the school Facebook page. All members are to use the west entrance, Door C, not through the front lobby doors. The $10 fee pays for the FOB, otherwise the fitness center is free to the public. Anyone interested in signing up please call the Owen-Withee School District at 715-229-2151.