In the midst of stress, sleepless nights and midnight munchies, it is important for college students to find a safe haven in which to run. Literally.
Physical activity is an essential aspect in maintaining quality health. It increases blood flow, boosts metabolism, improves mood and helps the mind focus.
In order to stay motivated, it is important to engage in a work- out plan that is both enjoyable and unique to your personal fitness preferences.
When choosing a gym, there are several questions that must be considered. What amenities are offered? Are membership plans affordable? How close is the location?
In order to assist in this search, these questions have been answered in regards to five fitness centers within a 10 minute radius of California Baptist University’s main campus.
Centers have been listed in order, based on driving distance from campus.
Bally Total Fitness
Located only 1.7 miles from CBU, Bally Total Fitness offers cardio equipment, group exercise classes, personal training, racquetball, a pool, a sauna and a whirlpool.
Guests can purchase a membership to a single Bally Total Fitness location for a monthly fee of $21.99. For access to multiple locations, additional fees will apply. At the time of purchase a one-time payment of first and last months dues will be expected as well. Members have the option to pay in full or pay as they go.
The club is open for business most weekdays from 5 a.m. to 12 a.m., Fridays from 5 a.m. to 10 p.m., and weekends from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m.
For more information, contact Bally Total Fitness at 951-687-2991
LA Fitness
The newest of the selected fitness centers, LA Fitness, is located off of Arlington Ave., only 2.9 miles from campus. This location offers cardio equipment, free weights, strength training machines, personal training, group exercise classes, an indoor pool, sauna and racquetball.
In order to become a club member, guests can pay a small fee of $8.95 per week. They must pay first and last dues at the time of purchase, however this price totals $17.90 and is an affordable start to students who cringe when they have to spend large amounts of cash at once.
Club hours are most weekdays 5 a.m to 12 a.m., Fridays from 5 a.m. to 10 p.m. and weekends from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
LA Fitness can be contacted at 951-231-2088.
KO Fitness Center
KO Fitness Center is a small facility, located 3.2 miles from campus, just off the Tyler St. exit on the 91 freeway. KO, which is an acronym for “knock-out,” is known for its unique fitness classes, particularly those specializing in self- defense and kickboxing. In addition to group classes, cardio equipment, weights and punching bags are available for use.
Club hours are most weekdays from 5a.m. to 11p.m., Fridays from 5a.m. to 9p.m. and weekends from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. A basic membership starts at $39 per month.
For more information, contact KO Fitness at 951-343-9007
Anytime Fitness
For exercisers who want to work out on their own terms, Anytime Fitness offers services to guest any time, any day.
Located in downtown Riverside, next to the Old Spaghetti Factory, Anytime Fitness boasts cardio equipment, weight machines, tanning, massage therapy, personal training, 24-hour security and access to any of their other locations.
For specific pricing information, contact Anytime Fitness at 951-684-2874.
24 Hour Fitness Sport, Corona
Known for its partnership with NBC’s “The Biggest Loser,” and its sponsorship of the U.S.A. Olympic team, 24 Hour Fitness is a prominent name in the fitness arena.
Located in Corona, only 8 miles from campus, 24 Hour Fitness Sport is home to many amenities, such as: cardio equipment, strength training machines, group exercise classes, personal training, a sauna, a steam room, an indoor lap pool and full-size basketball courts.
True to its name, this location is open for business all day and ev- ery day, excluding major holidays.
A one-club membership may be purchased for $31.99 per month, or a one-time price of $249.99 per year, which is equal to about $20 per month. Members may also buy a membership that allows them to work out at multiple 24 Hour Fitness locations for a slightly increased price.
For membership information contact 24 Hour Fitness at 951-734-0121
Better health is a short drive away. If you fear commitment, simply contact any of these locations to request a free guest pass or a tour of the facility. Test it out for yourself and find a gym that is best suited for your fitness needs.