College breaks ground for new fitness center

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Spartanburg Methodist College has broken ground for construction of a student fitness center, which when finished will include cardio and exercise machines, free weights and an aerobics room. Exercise classes will include yoga, Zumba, barre and Pilates classes. 

“We believe education should feed the mind, spirit and body,” said Scott Cochran, Spartanburg Methodist College president, in a news release. “This new facility will make it easier for our students to stay healthy while they pursue their college goals, and they’re extremely excited about it.”

The new 4,000-square-foot student fitness center will be located beside the William S. Moore Student Athletic Activities Building, also known as Moore Gym. Moore Gym was built in 1939 and is now used primarily by the college’s wrestling team and for physical education classes. There is no exercise equipment in the Moore Gym. Students who play on one of the college’s 14 intercollegiate athletic teams use a conditioning and weight room in Jesse L. Bridges Arena, which was built in the 1970s, according to the release.

The building is expected to be completed in October. It is designed by McMillan Pazdan Smith and will be built by Mavin Construction.