Getting involved in JCU's extracurricular activities is one of the best ways to enjoy the John Cabot University experience. It is not only an excellent way to meet other students who share the same interests as you, but it also gives you a chance to pursue something you are passionate about and put your energy into something outside the classroom as well. If you are an active person, or you are interested in sports and fitness, then the JCU Athletics department is the right place for you to get involved! Finding your place in the athletics department could mean using JCU's fitness center for personal or group workouts, becoming a Gladiator by playing on one the sports teams, attending one of the athletics department's hiking or skiing weekend trips, and more!
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The JCU athletics department wants to promote a healthy and active lifestyle, while also encouraging participants to have fun. Regular exercise plays a fundamental role in our physical and mental well-being, so we might as well have fun while we're doing it!
Here are the top 5 ways that the JCU athletics department can help you stay in shape while enjoying the process:
- The fitness center equipment
The fitness center, located in the Gianicolo Residence, has a variety of machines and accessories to help you work out. The gym is modern and equipped with treadmills, stationary bikes, cardiovascular machines, nautilus machines, and free weights. The center also provides showers, lockers, and changing rooms for your convenience. Stop by for a workout anytime Monday-Thursday from 8am to 10pm and Friday-Sunday from 10am to 8pm, though opening times are subject to change.
2. The wide variety of fitness classes
If you love to take workout classes but feel like you have a pretty busy class schedule, don't worry! JCU athletics has your back and offers many different fitness classes every day, throughout the day! Their goal is to accommodate all students regardless of their daily schedule. Some of these classes include FitCross, Zumba, Pilates, yoga, kick boxing, and aikido. This wide variety of classes ranges from 8 to 7:45pm on different days throughout the week. You can check out the schedule here for more information.
3. The professional instructors
Not only are our instructors friendly and helpful to students and athletes, but they all hold professional sports degrees and certificates. They are ready and available in the fitness center if you have any questions or need advice on your workouts.
4. The sports teams
If you love to be a part of a team, want to represent John Cabot against other universities around Rome, and want to show off your skills, don't hesitate to join either men's or women's soccer, coed volleyball, coed basketball, or cheerleading. These varsity teams compete in the Universities of Rome Championship, and other national and international tournaments.
5. The athletics trips
One of the more adventurous aspects of getting involved with JCU athletics is that you might get the chance to go on one of the wonderful trips and retreats! Every semester, the department offers fun and new hiking trips all around Italy. This is a great way to explore the natural beauty and scenery of Italy, while hiking and staying in shape at the same time. Professional guides and the athletics staff will guide you into some of the country's beautiful hidden areas, unknown to many tourists.
Alexa Vujaklija (Shearer)
Class of 2015
Communications Major
Grew up in The United States, Germany, The Republic of Georgia, Russia, and Bulgaria
