Spotlight on the MCRC Fitness Room:

Cybex Machines

The Cybex machines in the MCRC Fitness Room can provide excellent results for beginners as well as the very seasoned exercisers. It is always important to consult your physician before starting an exercise program. This is particularly true if any of the following apply to your current medical condition:

• Chest pain or pain in the neck and/or arm
• Shortness of breath
• A diagnosed heart condition
• Joint and/or bone problems
• Currently taking cardiac and/or blood pressure medications 
• Have not previously been physically active
• Dizziness

If none of these apply to you, start gradually and sensibly. However, if you feel any of the physical symptoms listed above when you start your exercise program, contact your physician right away. If one or more of the statements listed above applies to you, see your physician before beginning any exercise program. An exercise stress test may be used to help plan your exercise program.

MCRC Fitness Room Attendants are trained to assist patrons with the proper operation of the machines. Be sure to ask if you have questions. On certain Saturdays at 7 pm and Sundays at 5 pm, MCRC offers orientation classes to learn about proper use of the machines. A Fitness Room attendant will take patrons through the equipment and show the basics of adjusting the equipment, performing the exercise, selecting a program and fitness room etiquette. A sign up sheet is located at the Fitness Room desk. 

If you're looking for more assistance, we have contact information for several certified trainers you could contact. Just check at the Front Desk for a Personal Trainer Profile Sheet. 

Each machine is specially designed to isolate a specific muscle group and focus on that particular group to work out. If the machine is adjusted improperly or you are positioned in the machine improperly, you will not get the full benefit and could possibly put extra strain on the wrong part of your body. "The old saying, no pain no gain does not apply here," says Kurt Gehring, MCRC Recreation Supervisor. "Sure you might feel some soreness and discomfort the next day after working out a particular muscle group that hasn't seen that kind of work. But if you feel pain, particularly in a joint or muscle, stop that exercise immediately and make sure you are performing the motion properly."