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With high temperatures creeping into Chico, it may be hard finding motivation to get outside and workout. The last thing many students want to do in 90-degree weather is any activity that results in raised body heat and sweating.
So to keep - or get into - tip-top shape for summer, students should consider joining a gym. Many are air-conditioned and offer summer deals that can save students money.
"There are several benefits of going to a professional gym," said Jim Aird, membership supervisor at In Motion Fitness.
Aird's gym keeps the equipment up-to-date and running properly, he said. It's a friendly environment with clean bathrooms and nice carpet.
"These are things some people don't even get in their own apartment or home," he said.
Running and other outdoor activities are great, but people get bored and tired with a repetitive workout, Aird said. Gyms offer a lot of variety in machines and weights.
In Motion Fitness is offering a four-month special for $215, and students can sign up until May 31, he said. Or, students can sign up for an annual contract and get the summer months for free.
Some students also think the gym has great benefits.
"I like the openness in the gym, and there are a lot of lawn chairs for sunbathing," said senior Brynn DeBarr, who works at In Motion Fitness. "And the locker rooms are nice, so I can easily get ready to go to class."
Athletic types looking for a place to workout this summer can check out The Body Shop, on West Fifth Street.
Although the gym caters to everyone, it specializes in athletes and athletic training, employee Megan Schwartz said. The gym gives discounts for athletic teams, including Chico State's.
The Body Shop is also offering a summer special. A membership from now until Aug. 21 costs $119, Schwartz said.
"Another great thing about The Body Shop is that all of our trainers have a master's degree in the fields of nutrition and fitness," she said. "So, they are educated in what they are talking about and telling athletes what to do."
Senior Mike McNeely has been going to the gym since January, he said.
"I like the convenience," McNeely said. "And there are not too many people there. Not everyone is trying to be on the same machine."
With the heat of summer, some turn to water activity for fun games and workouts. Students that enjoy swimming should think about joining the North Valley Athletic Club on Rio Lindo Avenue.
"We are the gym with Chico's only indoor pool," said Scott Schofield, owner and manager. "We also offer other great amenities such as racquetball and a full schedule of classes."
The club is offering a plan for $38 per month with variations dependent on whether someone wants to be a full- or part-time member, Schofield said. The club also offers a roommate plan that cuts the price for four months from $152 to $122 if friends or roommates sign up together.
Senior Lorna Mason, who works at the North Valley Athletic Club, enjoys the atmosphere, she said.
"I've been to a lot of clubs in Chico, and I decided on this one because everything is open and the staff is really friendly," she said. "Plus, the Pilates classes are awesome."
Jeanetta Bradley can be reached at jbradley@theorion.com
Related links Google map of gyms in Chico
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