Michael Blackman, general manager at Planet Fitness, said attendance almost doubled in the new year. Blackman said he thinks the increase is due to New Year’s resolutions and fitness goals, and these goals and resolutions may be in response to common distractions, such as the holidays and traveling.
George Brown, executive director of University Recreation, said University Recreation saw an 8.35 percent increase for all University of Alabama recreational facilities during the first 10 days of the spring term compared to the same 10-day period in the fall.
“Participation at [Student Activity Center at Presidential Village] increased from 9,720 in fall 2014 to 11,757 in spring 2015 which is 2,037 more visits or 20.9 percent,” he said.
This marks the highest recorded participation to date.
“While University Recreation cannot predict the enrollment growth of The University of Alabama moving forward, it is not unrealistic that we will see reports of over 50,000 action card visits across all facilities during these first 10-day periods in the future,” Brown said. “This would, of course, equate to a very impressive 5,000 visits per day recognition.”
Jamie Cormier, co-owner of CrossFit Candor, said her gym gained 24 new ON RAMP beginner members in 2015, which is a significantly larger class compared to the usual eight to 10 members.
The ON RAMP program is designed for athletes who are new to the CrossFit program. The class provides a place for beginners to learn the necessary movements and skills used in CrossFit.
“There is no requirement for any athlete entering the program,” Cormier said. “Whether you’ve been an athlete your whole life or never worked out before, the ON RAMP and any CrossFit class is modified to your ability and comfort zone.”
Cormier said she hopes to see the membership increases continue throughout the year.
