While the Gibson Health and P.E. Center is under construction, Powell Fitness Center is saving many students from putting on pounds.

KELSI WILLIAMSON Chief Photographer Krysta Browning, sophomore elementary education major from Falcon, CO, and Amber Bower, sophomore vocational missions major from Fort Worth, work out in Powell Fitness during an exercise science strength training class.

Some members of what used to be the Gibson’s North and South Exercise rooms have transferred to Powell as the construction of the Student Recreation and Wellness Center continues.

Dr. David Dillman, professor of political science, used to work out in the South Exercise Room, but he said he does not feel at all inconvenienced by this situation. Faculty and students who lost their gym now can work out in Powell at no extra cost.

“All the machines I used were moved to Powell,” Dillman said.

David Hess, strength coach at ACU, said he is happy to see more activity and new machinery in Powell.

“We have a lot more members, especially females. Before, I didn’t have the machines that girls like to use,” Hess said. “Now, we are more of a full-service gym.”

The student athletes work out in Powell, as well, but for the most part, they exercise in a wing added to the building three years ago. While the main gym is a bit crowded, room remains for non-athlete students to work out.

Powell is open to students, faculty and the public for a membership fee of $100 per semester. In 18 months, when the new recreational center opens, Hess will continue his training services in Powell for those interested.

The biggest change in Powell’s day-to-day operations after the opening of the Recreation and Wellness Center will be reflected in hours of operations, Hess said. At this point, though, he is unsure what those hours will be.

Students will wait three more semesters for the new recreation center to open. In the meantime, Powell Fitness Center serves as the ACU community’s only on-campus option for indoor workouts open to everyone. However, Dillman said he expects the facilities will be worth the wait.

“It should be a good addition to the university physical plant and a good benefit for current and future students,” Dillman said.