“Why are the Gyms so Packed Bro”

New Year: A time of celebration, rejoicing, and resolutions. People worldwide are making ‘commitments’ to better themselves for the upcoming year; people often associate bettering themselves with getting in better shape. As a result, gyms everywhere are overwhelmed with new members and slackers trudging back to shed the holiday pounds.

This outbreak is happening throughout the United States, specifically in our local YMCA. The Waukee YMCA has experienced a 30% increase in attendance: according to Waukee YMCA worker Drew Ferrel. With this increase in gym attendance, many regular gym attendees are still affected by this influx of gym goers.

Jason Henriquez, a junior, attends the Waukee YMCA gym. He has been affected in the sense that his “workouts are longer, as a result of not many machines or equipment being open.” “Since my workouts are lengthened, it gives me less time to go home and do other things such as homework which is reflected in my grades,” explains Jason. The influx of attendance at the YMCA affects not only Jason’s workouts but his school life as well; he finishes his homework later at night, decreasing his sleep and making his academic life all the more stressful.

Another junior that attends the Waukee YMCA is junior Colin Burke. “The increase in attendance at the YMCA affects me because more people means more machines taken which makes me workout a lot longer than usual; because of this I could not get a full workout because I need to be at work”, says Colin. Colin experiences similar problems as Jason, the machines being occupied leads to a longer workout, but in Colin’s case he can not take long to work out–he suffers a worse workout due to the fact he can’t get in a complete workout. 

Drew Ferrel works at the Waukee YMCA and takes care of the fitness section. He has a different viewpoint than most of the members affected. “It’s good to see people come in and better themselves after the new year”, explains Drew. “I love it when it’s packed since it gives me something more to do. 

Although the increase in gym attendance leads to packed gyms, and less gym equipment open, the increase of people also has positive consequences; people are looking to better themselves at the gym, which not only makes themselves healthier and in a better state, but also makes the gym employees joyful.