Gym adopts new protocol

Author: Dan Stevens

On March 1, the Athletic Department announced a change in Fitness Center protocol. Due to a mandate from the State Fire Marshall, the College was forced to modify several aspects of the Fitness Center - most visibly the removal of personal belongings from the hallway directly outside the Fitness Center.

Although the College was responding to a mandate from the State Fire Marshall, plans had already been in progress to alleviate the problem. A plan was proposed by the Fitness Center Director in the past two or three years to improve the situation, but no action was taken. Another request from a Middlebury College professor within the last three months prompted the need for a change.

While the Athletic Department was in the process of enacting the changes, a visit from the State Fire Marshall prompted quick action. Forced to make the necessary changes within a week, the Athletic Department responded by removing obstructions in the hallway and posting signs stating the new requirements. The Athletic Department also notified the College community via e-mail of the changes along with the availability of lockers for student use.

Many students understand the need for the procedures, but they have expressed annoyance. "I understand that they're doing it for safety reasons, but it's still a pain," said Steve Head '08. "I just wish they would post exactly why they had to do it. I mean, we've been doing it the same way for a long time. Why the changes now?"

Although the College had permitted students to leave their personal belonging outside the Fitness Center, the Athletic Department has always kept the outside doors locked. This has not been changed. The doors are locked because there is no method for the College to monitor people passing in and out of those doors. Since the Athletic facilities are restricted to authorized personnel, the College must monitor the entrances. This simply is not possible in the area outside the Fitness Center.

Many students have also expressed dismay over the locker renting procedure.

"I don't know even know where those lockers are, and it has deterred me from going to the gym," said Elysa Granados '08.

The locker room policy is not a change from prior Athletic Department procedures. Students are permitted to check out a permanent locker if they choose. Also, students may simply stow their belongings in the locker rooms without a locker. Either solution works as long as personal belongings remain out of the Fitness Center hallway.

Students have also expressed desire to store items in the lounge above the Fitness Center. While convenient for student use, this room is used for many purposes including lectures, recruiting, meetings and classes. These events cannot progress with the constant interruption of students from the Fitness Center.

"It's too bad, but I guess we'll just have to change," Head said.