Staying Active at Carleton: A Look at Our Gym Facilities

Working Out in College

When I was choosing a college, one thing I didn’t think I’d care much about was gym access. But let me tell you, once the stress of classes hits, having solid gym facilities makes a huge difference, whether you’re an athlete or just trying to stay sane with a good workout. At Carleton, we’re lucky to have not just one, but four different athletic facilities that students can use. Each one has a distinct vibe, and together they cover just about every fitness or recreation need you could imagine.

1. The Rec Center (a.k.a. the main gym)

This is the heart of student fitness on campus. I go here most often, whether it’s to get some runs in on the indoor track, lift weights in the Fitness Center, or try not to embarrass myself on the rock wall (which, by the way, is modeled after Minnehaha Falls and looks amazing). The Rec Center has pretty much everything, cardio machines, weight machines, racquetball and squash courts, and even an aerobics studio that hosts classes like yoga, martial arts, and Zumba. The big fieldhouse inside has space for basketball, tennis, soccer, and even indoor track meets.

You’ll see everyone here, varsity athletes doing conditioning, friend groups playing pick-up volleyball, or people like me just trying to keep up with their fitness goals between problem sets.

2. Cowling Gym

Cowling is a little quieter and more tucked away, which I like when I want a less crowded workout or to swim laps in the 25-yard pool. It’s also home to a dance studio and some varsity practice spaces. I sometimes use it when I want to switch up my routine or just get in some solo time in a more laid-back setting. Pro tip: the vibes in Cowling during a late-night swim is super peaceful.

3. West Gym

This place is iconic. It has this super unique “three-dome” architecture, and it’s where our basketball and volleyball teams compete. The gym floor here is polished and bright, and the energy during games is unmatched. West Gym also has Thorpe Pool, where swim meets happen, and where students can do lap swims or try out club water polo. It’s not my go-to daily workout spot, but whenever I’m in there for a swim or cheering on friends during a meet, it feels like a big part of the Carleton experience.

4. Laird Stadium

Laird is a classic. It’s our outdoor stadium with a full 400-meter track (great for jogs when the weather’s nice) and a massive seating area. I’ve gone to football games here, but it’s also open for casual use when there aren’t meets or games. Plus, it has indoor training areas and a weight room, so athletes (and non-athletes taking a weightlifting P.E class) can get a solid lift in. I always feel a bit more motivated to push myself when I’m working out in a space that’s hosted national track meets.

Workout Culture at Carleton

What I love most is that Carleton’s gym culture is super low-pressure. Whether you’re a varsity athlete or someone just trying to de-stress with a short jog on the treadmill or a chill yoga session, there’s space for you. The variety of facilities means you can find your own rhythm, whether that’s scaling the rock wall on a Sunday morning, joining a club soccer game in the fieldhouse, or taking a quiet swim after a long day of class.

In the end, I didn’t pick Carleton because of the gyms. But now that I’m here? I’m really glad they’re part of my day-to-day.

Abrar (he/him) is a junior Economics and Computer Science double major from Dhaka, Bangladesh. He loves Carleton’s intercultural energy. He’s especially drawn to spaces where students from all backgrounds come together. Outside of class, he’s involved in Club Rugby, FC, research, and campus admissions. His favorite places on campus are Sayles (for the energy) and the Lower Arb (for the peace). He’s a big fan of cold weather, long walks, and deep conversations about life, faith, or which country has the best mangoes. When not in class, you can usually find him designing something, planning a trip, or pretending not to be stressed about the future.