The gym at the College of the Rockies (COTR) Cranbrook campus has undergone a major transformation, with significant upgrades to its fitness equipment. The improvements are already paying off, with gym usage up by 50%.

With 200 students living on campus and hundreds more attending daily, the demand for affordable fitness facilities has always been high. However, until recently, the aging equipment—damaged by years of use and COVID-19 disinfecting protocols—was hindering the gym’s potential.

“The equipment was outdated and rusty, which kept students away,” said Jodie Pickering, Kinesiology Instructor and program coordinator. “Many chose to go elsewhere in town to workout.”

In 2019, a partnership between Columbia Basin Trust, COTR and Selkirk College was established to improve the student experience across the region. The Trust provided support to the colleges, enabling projects like the COTR Cranbrook gym upgrade.

The new equipment arrived in October 2023, including chrome strength training machines (multi-press, squat rack, leg extension), state-of-the-art cardio machines (climb mill, elliptical), functional training equipment (bands, balls, mats) and a storage room filled with sporting equipment (lawn games, slo-pitch and pickleball gear).

Additionally, new mountaineering and ski gear—helmets, ropes and axes—was sent to the Golden campus to support their Adventure Tourism Business Operations program and two whitewater kayaks and some climbing gear went to the Mountain Adventure Skills Training program held at the Fernie campus.

The new equipment is also incorporated into kinesiology classes, enhancing hands-on learning.

“Students now use the same equipment they will encounter in their professional careers. It’s customizable, adjustable and clean, which makes learning more effective,” said Pickering. “We love showing the gym off—it’s even become a recruiting tool.”

Sports teams, including the Avalanche men’s and women’s volleyball teams, have embraced the new facilities.

Coach Cisco Farrero noted, “New equipment boosts team morale and helps our players grow. Our motto is ‘keep climbing’ and the upgraded gym supports that mission.”

It’s making a difference for students and athletes alike. “Preparing for our volleyball season—and throughout the year—maintaining our strength and fitness has been an important part of our success,” said Reece Clarke, kinesiology students and Libero for the Avalanche.

“Having the new equipment in our gym has made training much more enjoyable and comfortable.”

Whether preparing students for kinesiology careers, adventure tourism roles or simply offering a place to unwind during stressful times, COTR now has more resources to support its students physical and mental health.

Lead image: College of the Rockies student Reece Clarke takes advantage of the new gym equipment in Cranbrook. Columbia Basin Trust photos

Columbia Basin Trust

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