Most students can’t say they do cardio workouts twice a day, lift weights every other day and attend training meetings weekly, while also juggling academic classes and weekend competitions. But those students aren’t members of USC’s Bodybuilding and Fitness Club.

A group of like-minded students, members of the Bodybuilding and Fitness Club dedicate their time on campus to promote a healthy lifestyle amongst its members and throughout the greater USC community. Each year, the club hosts a variety of fitness activities and competitions on campus including a fall octathalon, strength meet and most recently the Mr. and Miss USC Fitness Competition (held this past Saturday, April 13). For third-year Hospitality Management student Heather Cooper, this was her first time competing and training for a fitness competition. She says, “Previously, I had never trained for anything more than a 5K.”

Participation in the club’s athletic events isn’t a requirement to join. In fact, there are many ways for non-competitive students to become involved. Several members volunteer to organize and run the various competitions. Harrison Greenlaw, former faculty advisor says, “We try to get all the members to learn, whether they are entering or just officiating.” Some students, like club officer and second–year Exercise Science student Ron Doiron, take advantage of the active community while training for other goals. Currently training for a strength meet coming up in late summer, Ron shares his knowledge with club members, imparting his straightforward approach to training. He explains, “It’s nothing specific, I just hit what needs to be hit.”

Most importantly, the club is committed to helping everyone achieve their own personal fitness goals and is open to students of all fitness levels. Members generally workout on their own time, but some club meetings are used as training sessions. Club workouts are aimed at teaching exercises that focus on certain parts of the body as well as safety, proper form and other important aspects of training. The more experienced club members help to train and guide newer members.

The club’s focus reaches beyond achieving the right exercise and training regimen. Maintaining a balanced and healthy diet is important to providing the proper nutrients to reach a specific physical goal. Second–year Exercise Science student, Jordan Hall finds maintaining a low carb, high protein diet and incorporating a lot of vegetables has helped her ease into the rigors of competing for the Mr. and Miss USC competition.

If you are looking to begin a healthier lifestyle or meet a community of active students on campus, checkout the Bodybuilding and Fitness Club during their weekly meetings on Wednesday at 6:30 pm in Blatt 107 or online at carolinafitness.com.

TRY THIS QUICK ROUTINE BEFORE YOUR NEXT WORKOUT

Train like the Bodybuilding and Fitness Club. They perform a group warm-up at the beginning of each training meeting.

• 30 arms circles (15 each)15 yds High Knees
• 10 slow push-ups
• 15 yards Butt Kicks
• 10 Deep Air Squats
• 15 yds Straight-Leg Kicks