Campus Rec’s Healthy U Wellness Challenge marches forward with a wide variety of events in the coming weeks.

Basics of Fencing

Saturday, Jan. 22

1:15 p.m.–3:15 p.m. in ASRC 440/441

Is there anyone who hasn’t fantasized about engaging in some real-life swordplay? Thanks to the PSU Fencing Rec Club, us lay-folk finally have a chance to mimic the swashbuckling we’ve seen in the movies all these years. Personally, I’d amp myself up by watching “Hook” or “The Princess Bride” the night before. For those who get bitten by the fencing bug, I’m sure the Fencing Club is eager to gain some new pin cushions…err, members.

Bosu class

Tuesday, Jan. 25

2:30 p.m.–3:30 p.m. in ASRC 440/441

The Bosu workout centers on work around a hemispheric ball. While I’m not a huge fan of unstable surface training as the central component of one’s routine, that doesn’t mean Bosu isn’t a challenging workout. Bosu training is a great way to supplement one’s routine. This one-hour class is the perfect opportunity for us dedicated weight trainers to switch up our routine, and maybe even embarrass ourselves a bit with our lack of

coordination and balance in the process. For everyone else, it’s sure to be a fun workout that is slightly different from more conventional training. Give it a try.

Stretching, Injury Prevention, and Gear

Wednesday, Jan. 26

Noon–1 p.m. in SMSU 229 “Alumni Lounge”

There’s no point getting in shape if one is going wreck their own body in the process. While gym safety isn’t rocket science, there are many myths floating around about proper workout safety protocol. Are we supposed to stretch before, during or after? All of the above? Attend this event and find out once and for all. Furthermore, the modern gym (and rest assured, Campus Rec is ultra-modern) contains plenty of equipment that can be dangerous if used improperly. Lastly, there are numerous fitness accessories and gear that can enhance one’s workout, but they aren’t very useful if the trainee can’t figure out how to properly implement them. All of these issues and common errors will be addressed  at this event.

Blood Drives

Monday. Jan. 31 through Friday, Feb. 4

11 a.m.–4 p.m. in SMSU Ballroom (Third Floor)

I’m not gonna nag. We all know that donating blood saves lives, so just do it. Besides, who doesn’t like the cookies and juice? Be sure to register online with redcrossblood.org beforehand. Once you’re on the site, select “Make a blood donation appointment” and then enter sponsor code PORTLANDSTATE.

PDX Dancers

Friday, Feb. 4

4 p.m.–5 p.m. in in ASRC 440/441

“Interested in exploring partnered dancing? Join the Rec Club PDX Dancers for a special afternoon of lessons, ice-breakers, and dance activities.” That’s all well and dandy, but as a male, the first thing that came to my mind was that this would make a great date, or a great way to score points with a partner. For the truly unfortunately souls, this could be a potential ticket out of the doghouse. I kid, I kid. In all seriousness, though, dancing is fun, a great way to meet new friends, and a good workout.