Moravian’s Fitness Center is a spacious facility for students, staff, and faculty to work out at no cost. Located in the Briedegam Field House next to Johnston Hall, the fitness center includes spacious workout areas, a good variety of cardio fitness, and plenty of press machines. In addition, it provides views of the ARC’s indoor track field and the Makuvek field. There are cubbies at the front entrance, and outside of the center, there are Briedgeam locker and shower rooms for extra storage.
Firstly, I appreciate the center being open during breaks. Over the winter, I still visited Bethlehem a lot so it was really nice to stop by the center after I was done with errands.
As mentioned, there is an impressive array of fitness machines from treadmills and ellipticals to Stairmaster step climbers. However, what’s even more impressive is that there is an area dedicated to calisthenics and gym-mat exercises. I’ve been to gyms like Planet Fitness and Orangetheory and these places either don’t have a calisthenics area or have minimal, awkward spaces for exercises that require gym mats.
As someone who does specialized exercises to help with my scoliosis, it’s great to have a space that isn’t too close to machines and provides me with enough room.
A recent development at the center is the 30-minute limit of ellipticals and treadmills. I really appreciate this since it can get super busy and people tend to hog the machines for way too long. Given increasing class sizes each year, this is a very considerate feature that ensures everyone gets a chance at the machines.
Additionally, the center has monthly challenges, ranging from squats to cardio, that add a touch of competition to pursuing fitness goals. Attempts are supervised by a fitness center employee and there are chances to win prizes such as gym bundles, rec awards, or a t-shirt and water bottle. Be sure to check the whiteboard near the front desk or ask a center employee for details on the challenge of the month!
I’m glad the Fitness Center is such an accommodating and motivating space for students and staff. I love getting a workout in late at night before driving home or inviting a friend to exercise with me when our schedules finally align. It’s also just a healthy space to be in when you want to have a small academic detox and focus on yourself.
The “working out every day” New Year’s resolution is always so corny but still, a fresh new year means a fresh new opportunity to work out in the comforts of our awesome community!
The Fitness Center is open Monday through Thursday from 6 am to 10 pm, Friday from 6 am to 8:30 pm, and Saturday and Sunday from 8 am to 4 pm. You can follow their Instagram for updates and monthly challenges.
