Now that the summer is ending and the fall semester is beginning, longer hours of study and lower temperatures tempt me to stay indoors and forgo physical activities.  With my class load and job, I just don't have time for exercise.  But research shows that an active lifestyle benefits mental acuity, so I figure racquetball will actually help me memorize my foreign language vocabulary! 

Can't argue with science.

Luckily, UAF offers a wide range of activities to assist me with my studies.  One way is simply to go to the Rec. Center.  I like to jog for about 20 minutes and then do some strength training on the hammer machines while my girlfriend stair-steps and does Yoga.  Sometimes we play basketball or volleyball with people we meet on the court.  Everyone is always friendly and people of all different abilities have no problems playing together.

Another way is to participate in intramural athletics.  This is one of the best ways to meet people at UAF where currently there are 12 different sports, including water polo, broomball, and ultimate Frisbee.  All of the teams have co-rec divisions and a complete list of sports can be found by pressing the "intramural" link in the "athletics" button on the UAF homepage. 

If you are interested in joining a team, all you need to do is leave your name with the intramural office in the SRC and they will place you on a team.  If you are interested in starting a team, you need to fill out a "team registration form" which costs $25.00 and is also located in the intramural office.  Most sports started last week, but it is never to late to join.

Every sport has playoffs each semester where the best team in the men's, women's and co-rec divisions are awarded championship tee shirts.  These shirts have become one of the most coveted trophies at UAF.

If competition isn't your thing, maybe you should check out he UAF L.I.F.E. program.  This is a personalized program designed to help you achieve maximum mind and body wellness.  It offers aerobics, kickboxing, massage therapy and workshops in various other physical and mental health issues. 

The first workshop this year will have psychologist Bill Connor from the UAF Center for Health and Counseling speaking about "Coping with Traumatic Events."  More information can be found by following athletic and intramural links from the UAF website, or by emailing Michelle Combellick at fnmgc@uaf.edu.

Lastly, a great way to get away from the dorms or the office is to cheer for UAF at an intercollegiate game.  Women's volleyball returns from last week's road trip to host St. Martin's College on Friday at 7 pm.  Admission in only $2, making it a great place to take a date, and besides, you'll see some of your buddies from the rec. center.

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