This past summer, the McGill fitness centre in the Currie Gym underwent a four-month long renovation. Since its conception in 2008, this project aimed to increase the available workout space in the fitness centre. Renovations were completed in time for the start of the fall semester.

Construction of a new 2,000 square foot mezzanine began in late April. The raised work out space is above where the treadmills and other cardiovascular equipment were previously located.

Angelo Battista, assistant manager of operations and project manager at the McGill Fitness Complex, said the renovation was deemed necessary for several reasons.

“[The centre] needed space for less classical workouts,” Battista said. “We wanted areas dedicated to stretching [and] plyometric workouts … [McGill athletics administration] was not satisfied with just a weight room.”

Although the original project was to extend the old, smaller upstairs area, this plan did not meet building safety regulations. Thus, the project was altered to construct a competely separate, larger mezzanine instead.

According to Battista, the fitness centre remained closed for the entirety of the construction period because its location—the junction between Avenue du Parc and Avenue des Pins—posed quite a challenge for the renovators. Situated below street level, this junction only permitted construction equipment and crews to access the facility through its windows, affecting the mobility and safety of those using the fitness centre.

Margaret Markin, U2 arts and science, said she was disappointed that the construction prevented her from exercising at the fitness centre over the summer months.

“It’s beautifully done—no one can argue that—[but] it was just a huge inconvenience to McGill summer students,” she said. “Especially considering how minor the change was.”

According to Battista, the administration was happy with the result, as the renovations were finished on time—the Centre reopened Sept. 1—and within budget. With money left over, McGill Athletics was able to purchase new, environmentally friendly flat screen televisions, which use one quarter of the energy consumed by the previous ones.

While many students expressed satisfaction with the previous layout of the fitness centre, others said the space was a bit limited in peak seasons. Cameron Dagg, U2 engineering, appreciated the new, spacious work out area.

“It’s really nice not to feel overwhelmed for a change when using the [weight training] equipment,” he said. “I can’t wait to try out the [new] TRX machine!”

The TRX machine is another addition to the mezzanine. These machines employ the manipulation of harnesses, and encourage athletes to use their own body weight to modify their workout regimes. Previously, students could only rent TRX bands, but now the fitness centre has its own apparatus. Furthermore, the centre will also be hosting classes to teach students how to use the machine.

For more information about what the McGill fitness centre has to offer, visit http://www.mcgill.ca/athletics/facilities/fitnesscentre/