By Nic LaPonte
Howard stands as an ancient bastion of physical fitness here at the University of Portland.
Besides its numerous amenities for conventional physical fitness however, Howard Hall also serves as the nexus for many of the recreational services programs, which are offered on campus.
The programs, which range from the adventurous to the technical, include classes on bicycle repair as well as a ski-bus service to Mt. Hood on Fridays.
The programs provided by Recreational Services are usually either free of charge or priced to the level of the additional cost of the program.
There are programs available for people who prefer organized activities in groups, or more informal ventures with fewer participants.
Some of the more organized events include group fitness sessions, which are for the most part conducted in Howard Hall, such as the popular Butts, Guts, and Arms class, and both regular and cardio kickboxing.
There are programs that focus on toning and strengthening like the Body Sculpting class taught at 7:30 p.m. on Monday, and 6 p.m. on Wednesday, as well as the Ab Lab, conducted on Monday from 7 to 7:30 p.m.
There are also programs like Yoga on Tuesday nights at 6 p.m. to focus the mind as well as the body.
While these programs are headquartered in Howard Hall, many go far beyond it in order to pursue excitement.
The Outdoor Pursuits Program also has its offices in Howard Hall. OPP, which puts on activities like backpacking, kayaking, mountain biking, snowshoeing, and is one of the most affordable ways to get off campus and go outdoors.
OPP also rents out equipment like mountain bikes, and snowshoes for a low fee.
OPP is putting on an Easter trip this weekend, as well as a flat water kayaking trip on the April 14 in Scappoose.
For more information about OPP, go online or drop by Howard to see other posted activities.
The Bike shop in Howard hall is the place to go for those needing some repair or maintenance done on their two-wheeled machine. The bike shop performs any number of repairs and tune ups for a small cost to the student.
The camping center, located near the bike shop, also rents out outdoor gear for no charge, as long as the use is short term and the gear is returned on time.
The shop rents out things like mountain bikes, tents, sleeping bags and sleeping pads, and camp stoves.
