There are many places on campus that are worthwhile visiting and exploring. Brock University has some of the most beautiful scenic sightlines on the escarpment, well designed infrastructure that showcases the campus’ history and growth of the institution, and innovative spaces that give a glimpse into its future. With so many things to take in, the Walker Sports Complex, located beside Alumni Field, is one of the many gems that merit discovering.
When you make your way down to the Walker Sports Complex, there is one facility that surely stands out. While countless opinions can rival that Walker (as it is affectionately called by many) has a myriad of amenities that are worth noting, in the centre of the building, right across from the welcome desk, which is proudly staffed with student reps greeting you with a warm smile, you get a first glimpse into the world of fitness at Brock. From the outside looking in, you can see students and community members lifting, pulling or pushing their hopes and dreams of being fit and staying healthy. To some, this might seem intimidating and even a little overwhelming. But, if you are able to brave through the initial need to retreat back to your bubble, manage to change into clothing more suitable for the environment, and stop by the CAGE to tap your student ID card to sign in, you will be well on your way to experiencing the joy that so many have come to know. After receiving your wristband, with a complimentary smile from the CAGE facility staff, you are halfway through stepping out of your comfort zone and into ‘The (real) Zone’ on campus.
As you make your way down the Ian D. Beddis hallway, and you see the entrance stairwell (the elevator access is just around the corner), you are just moments away from having an encounter you won’t soon forget. You have finally reached into the heart of The Zone, and you take your first steps into the 15,000 square feet of state-of-the-art facility. Immediately, a Zone attendant greets you, and they are ready to engage and answer all your questions. You now feel a rush of adrenaline, as the many sights and sounds of the facility begins to engage your senses and the scene becomes alive.
You explore the space to take in your surroundings and see all the cardio and strength training equipment, adorned in Brock red finishes. In your exploration, you notice that The Zone features a cardio deck, spin bikes area, and a small studio on the second floor. The lower level is stocked with resistance training equipment, punching bags and a turf area, and you begin to wonder, could there ever be more? Just then, through the corner of your eye you see more gym-goers utilizing the many stability balls, resistance tubing, equalizers, and more.
You begin to wonder, do I belong here, and will I ever fit in? At this very moment, after enduring the full journey and process to enter the world of the unknown, pause and listen to the small voice inside of you saying – ‘YES! You do.’ If this is you – do not waste another minute debating. Drop in sometime at The Zone or visit us online at https://brocku.ca/recreation/fitness-programs/ to find out about all the other amazing ways to get involved with fitness at Brock. Learn more about our free Expressfit classes, personal training sessions, and all the other programs we offer and don’t forget to follow us on social media @BrockRecreation.
