What is the Leach? The shorthand for the Florida State University (FSU) gym is representative of the full name, The Bobby E. Leach Student Recreation Center. It’s completely understandable to be nervous about your first time going to the Leach. Here is some advice to make your life easier when you decide to hit the Leach for a workout!
First, to get into the Leach, download the FSU Rec app on your phone, this will give you a handy QR code to scan into the facility at the front door. If not, no worries you can still use your FSU ID. Grab a pre-workout smoothie at Shakesmart and go ahead and put your backpack into a locker.Â
 A common concern from first-time visitors is that the first floor of the gym is intimidating. This is an understandable concern because the main floor of the facility has a lot of equipment, and many students are present throughout the day. It helps to remind yourself that everyone is on their fitness journey and most visitors are not paying much attention to anyone else there. So, if you are nervous, it’s good to remember that most people are focusing on themselves.
Another way to make the gym feel a bit less intimidating is signing up for a session with a fitness coach or a personal trainer. They can talk with you about your goals to make a personalized workout plan and show you how all the equipment in the Leach works. This is a good way to alleviate the anxiety of learning how all the machines work on your own. Working with a personal trainer will give you someone you can talk to during your workout to make you feel less anxious. If you don’t want to work with a trainer, a great way to make the gym less scary is to bring a friend! I know when I was a freshman, I liked to bring a buddy whenever I was going to be lifting weights. If you are intimidated, having somebody next to you could make you feel more comfortable. In addition to the weightlifting equipment, the first floor also has treadmills and a spin studio.
 Moving up to the second floor, there are stationary bikes and Stairmasters that overlook the first floor. If you are new to spinning, the Leach offers classes where someone can help talk you through setting up the bike. The bikes on the second floor are open for use at any time of day.
Another great way to get your bearings in the Leach is to register for group fitness classes. They offer a wide variety of classes, from spin to cardio dance (the author of this article teaches cardio dance at the Leach and she highly recommends you come). By going to these classes, you can slowly work your way into becoming more comfortable at the Leach in a welcoming environment.
The Leach Center is an excellent resource on campus. I would greatly recommend it to freshmen or anyone who is looking for a comfortable spot on campus. The gym is a good way to have some time alone, especially for freshmen who live on campus and go to classes all day. It’s important to take some time for yourself to be alone and unwind. The gym is a release for a lot of people, and it may be that for you too!
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