Exercise Clinic marks 50th anniversary with open house

The Exercise Clinic, an on-campus adult fitness program, will celebrate its 50^th anniversary next week. To mark this milestone, the Iowa State community is invited to attend an open house at the clinic, located in 194 Forker, on Thursday, Dec. 12, from 4 to 5:30 p.m., and Friday, Dec. 13, from 11 a.m. to noon. The open house is great opportunity to see firsthand the resources the clinic offers and to learn more about its programming.

Led by kinesiology assistant teaching professor Emily Martini, the clinic’s primary goal is to help participants develop lasting physical activity routines that enhance their overall quality of life. Its programs are open to Iowa State faculty and staff, as well as the general public, with approximately 100 members served each semester. Around 30 undergraduate students work at the clinic each semester, under the supervision of two graduate students.

The clinic offers the same equipment and fitness options found in a traditional gym, with the added benefit of personalized guidance.

Martini, an Iowa State alumna, worked in the clinic as an undergraduate student and has witnessed its evolution. The clinic initially focused primarily on group fitness, with a variety of aerobics classes.

“Today, it’s a more personalized exercise experience where students work one-on-one with members to help them on their fitness journeys,” she said.

The clinic also offers kinesiology students valuable hands-on experience, allowing them to apply their knowledge while helping others reach their fitness goals.

“Quite a bit goes into personalizing an exercise program. You have to find ways to accommodate any injuries, and you have to understand what each person needs and wants to do for exercise,” said Connor Anselme, a senior majoring in kinesiology and health, who hopes to work as an athletic trainer for older adults after graduation. “Everyone has something specific they want to focus on, and I think personalized exercise programs are the way to go.”

Jodi O’Donnell, an Iowa State retiree and member of the Exercise Clinic, learned about the clinic while working on a story for the Iowa State University Foundation’s magazine. She was impressed with its approach and decided to join.

“I’ve worked with a couple students during my time as a member, and I really like them. They’ve been very, very diligent,” she said. “And I think the biggest thing is, the Exercise Clinic is just a great community. I enjoy the relationships I’ve built here, and I think it’s fun to see new people come in and become part of the community.”