Palo Alto College is offering a free conditioning course for Palo Alto College students, faculty and staff to promote healthier lifestyles among the campus community.

The free course takes place every Monday, Wednesday and Friday from noon to 1 p.m. in Room 101 in the Gymnasium, and it will be available until the end of the semester.

The free conditioning course will also be available in the spring. Course activities include cardio and abdominal workouts. No registration to join the course is necessary; all you have to do is show up prepared to work out.

The spring schedule for the free conditioning course will be disclosed to the Palo Alto Community at the beginning of the semester.

Intramural Specialist John Libby said, "Everyone will get something out of it: lose weight, tone up, or just better endurance. Everyone will feel better about themselves, because healthier bodies promote healthy minds."

Weight loss is not the goal of every student involved in the conditioning course; the reasons for joining vary from one individual to another. Armida Flores, a Community Health major, said, "Basically, I am 49 years old and need to stay healthy."

Victor Gonzalez, a Business Management major, said, "I broke my leg a year ago on July 1, 2008, and I need to get back in shape after gaining clearance from my doctor. With this course, I believe I will have more energy, feel better about myself, gain confidence and a healthier lifestyle."

Other fitness opportunities are available for Palo Alto students, faculty and staff if the free conditioning course does not suit your schedule.

The weight room is available free of charge to the Palo Alto community on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 1 p.m. to 4:45 p.m. and Tuesdays and Thursdays from 3:30 p.m. to 5:15 p.m.

Open gym hours are also available on Mondays and Wednesdays from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m., Tuesdays and Thursdays from 3:30 p.m. to 5 p.m., and Fridays from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.

Swimming pool hours are Mondays through Thursdays from 7 a.m. to 9 a.m. and noon to 1 p.m. All hours are subject to change each semester.

In addition, a new fitness trail measuring ¾-mile is now open to both the campus and off-campus communities.

Palo Alto will offer hiking trips in the spring at minimal costs as another opportunity for students and the Palo Alto community to adopt healthier lifestyles.

Libby said, "The hiking trips are going to happen. I am in the process of putting together a schedule for the spring."

Many opportunities are available to the PAC community as a means to promote health and wellness. Choose the activity that is best for you.

For more information, e-mail John Libby at jlibby1@alamo.edu.