Students embrace training program

Natalie O’Farrell, assistant director of fitness for Campus Recreation, first created a personal training program to offer students and members of Carmichael Complex last spring. But this semester, the high level of student interest has forced the staff size to increase and has led to the creation of an instructional class for potential personal trainers.

When she was hired, O’Farrell was charged with the duty of starting the University’s personal training program from scratch. Campus Recreation was to offer personal training services to students, as well as programs that would train those who wanted to pursue personal training as an occupation. But without an exercise science degree program at N.C. State, O’Farrell was forced to look to other schools as models.

“When I was hired at the new facility, the department wanted to offer these types of programs. We didn’t have an [exercise science] education program of our own that filters in, so I asked other schools,” O’Farrell said. “We decided to offer a 12-week program that goes through anatomy, biomechanics, health screens, and liability issues for those who want to become personal trainers. It gets students to prepare to take the national certification on their own schedules.”

Personal trainer Linda Friend, a graduate student in food and nutrition from Meredith College, said she feels students are responding well to the new programs. She said the demand for trainers has forced Carmichael to increase its staff.

“There is definitely a lot of interest,” Friend said. “The problem has been that we have too many people [interested in hiring personal trainers]. We’ve had to triple our staff. It is refreshing to see students getting serious about their health.”

Costing $25 for one session or $240 for 12, Friend said she thinks Campus Recreation is offering an exceptional deal for students. The physiques of students who participate are examined and then goals are set based off of personal needs.

“It is a great value with these rates. You will not find better. It’s great to see the word getting out about these programs we have to offer,” Friend said. “There is a plethora of specialties and a fit for every need students may have. When we match the trainer with the client, they make their own schedules.”

Will Eatmon, a sophomore in industrial engineering, said he is interested in signing up for the program.

“It is a good opportunity for college kids. The price is reasonable and the money goes to N.C. State rather than a corporation,” Eatmon said. “I have friends who are enjoying the program and I am definitely considering it myself. It is great how they have a form you can fill out to choose whether you want a male or female or need specific specialties.”

Personal training is designed to help students adopt healthy lifestyles. Those who participate take fitness tests at their first sessions and then receive individually designed work-out programs based off the results.

“Our intentions are to mold the program around you,” O’Farrell said. “Whether you are just starting out or you’re in shape, we can help you. You don’t have to commit a great deal of time, or if you want to work out with a friend, we do group sessions.”