With snow forecasts in full swing throughout Capitol Hill and beyond, winter quarter at Seattle University has set in with the cold. Delayed start hours beginning as early as the second week of classes have interrupted not only class schedules and deadlines, but students’ ability to work out.

Students should fear not. The University Recreation (UREC) is fully equipped with pools, tennis courts, two basketball courts, turf fields, exercise studios, cardio floors and even a strength floor.

University Recreation—which seeks to inspire, educate and empower the Seattle University community to live a happier, healthier and more successful life—is the perfect place for Redhawks to get a sweat in without exposing themselves to the outdoor elements.

Zivi Spector, a junior sports and exercise science major and part of the UREC team, spoke of the benefits of the University’s recreation center.

“UREC offers a variety of fitness classes throughout the week from yoga to cardio dance,” Spector said. “Students can always come up with their own workouts using the cardio and strength floors too, so it’s a great way to stay active while staying out of the cold.”

For students seeking to brave the cold and immerse themselves in the slick outdoors, UREC offers a number of inclusive outdoor activities. The outdoor program enables students to reconnect with nature, make new friends and explore the world outside of Seattle U’s campus at relatively cheap costs.

JT Melbourne, a sophomore criminal justice major, is one of those students. Getting involved with various organizations has allowed him to explore grounds outside Capitol Hill while making new friends and memories along the way.

“My roommate and I head up to Snoqualmie Pass every Friday night of January,” Melbourne said. “We are volunteer ski and snowboard instructors for those with physical or mental disabilities. It’s a super fun way to meet some amazing people.”

Aside from his Friday night adventures to Snoqualmie, Melbourne has also gotten involved in bouldering—another great way to stay active while avoiding the cold.

“The Seattle Bouldering Project is the perfect place to stay fit and get a good workout in no matter the weather,” Melbourne said. “They were even open during the snowstorms last year…climbing has become my replacement for surfing sessions.”

Most trips are largely subsidized and some are even free with UREC’s Outdoor program. Winter quarter means snow this year and there is no shortage of trips for Redhawks to take advantage of. January through March features a number of excursions for students seeking to explore the outdoors, with multiple trips per weekend and activities ranging from camping to cross- country skiing and everything in between.

59% of Seattle U recreation trips are free and a whopping 61% also require little to no skill—meaning almost any student can partake. So whether it be a skiing trip, a snowshoe adventure, bouldering or simply getting a few laps in around Seattle U’s Aquatic Center, the recreational options are endless for Redhawks seeking to remain active despite the less-than-ideal outdoor conditions.

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