The Portland State Aquatic Center is switching things up forfall term, and the changes are a welcome departure from the strictregimen of lap swimming from previous years. The major shift is inthe pool schedule, now featuring “fun swim” and “family swim”nights and days. On Thursday nights fun swim sessions will go from6:30 to 8 p.m. and on Friday from 9:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. Sunday hasa block of time for family swim from 1:30 to 4 p.m.
Though Portland State lacks a real swim team, there is a swimand diving club that utilizes the pool. There is also a water poloclub in the process of assembly. Stop by the pool office for moreinformation. Swimming lessons are being offered currently forinterested students and faculty. To participate, collect a swimminglesson ticket at the box office in Smith Memorial StudentUnion.
| Aquatic Centervitals
Location: Peter W. Stott Center, access through main lockerrooms Contact: www.campusrec.pdx.edu or 503-725-5129 |
In addition to the swim club and water polo club there areseveral lessons and classes that are taught at the pool, includingkayaking lessons through the Outdoor Program. A water aerobicsclass is currently being offered through the Drop-In Fitnessprogram. Head to www.campusrec.pdx.edu to check out what’savailable.
If all you want to do is swim some laps and get a goodhigh-cardio, low-impact workout in, no one will stop you. However,there are a couple of things to be aware of. The main point is thatmost of Portland State’s teams use the pool at one time or anotherfor physical therapy and training. The easiest way to avoidswimming with the jocks is to check the pool schedule, which hasjust been updated at the aquatics web site.
A shower (with soap) is required before entering the pool, soplan ahead if you don’t want to be sharing bars some excessivelyhairy dude named Ned. A locker can be purchased for the term for$5, towels included. After you avoid Ned in the locker room, enjoythe laid-back vibe and cutting chlorine of PSU’s humble pool.