Exercise at USC

Alright, so we've covered what to eat at USC. Unfortunately, eating right is only half of the staying healthy equation. While everyone loves lounging and sitting and sleeping, its pretty important to get some movement going as well. Lucky for USC students, there are plenty of options on campus to get exercise. Not only is there a top of the line gym, but there are plenty of outdoor exercise options as well.



Become the King of the Gym at the Lyon Center

The Lyon Center

Not only does the Lyon Center have a 21,800 sq. ft. gym, but it also has basketball, volleyball, badminton, racquetball, squash and wrestling courts. Free weights are next to any type of weight machine one could hope for, all of which are situated next to various cardio equipment like treadmills, stationary bikes, and ellipticals. Multi-purpose weight and stretching areas can also be found, as well as group exercise studios and a spinning room. For the more adventurous, check out the climbing/bouldering wall located on the lower floor. When you're done with exercising, relax in the spacious locker rooms or spend some time in the sauna or Jacuzzi. The Lyon Center also now offers camping equipment rentals so you can take your exercise outdoors.

Entertaining Exercise

If standard exercise bores you, the Lyon Center has an answer. They offer a wide range of group exercise classes, going from the traditional and expected to the unique and fun. These classes cost money though, but once you buy a subscription to work out classes you can go to any of the ones offered. Current prices for students are $65 per semester. Here's a list of exercise classes offered at the Lyon Center along as described on the USC website!

• Martial Arts classes


• Yoga-Based on the ancient form(s) of yoga that focus on movement, balance, stretching, strength, flexibility, and relaxation. Style varies with instructor


• SCycling-USC's version of spinning or power pacing. An instructor directed indoor stationary cycling class utilizing cycling techniques, music, and visualization to create a non-impact workout.


• Muscle Conditioning-Strength training class that tones all major muscle groups usinghand weights, body bars, resistance tubing, and floor work.


• Mat Pilates-a non-impact yet highly intense workout. Principles include core or center-based exercises for stabilization, strength, balance, and overall physical conditioning.


• Step Aerobics-A non-impact aerobic class utilizing steps (platforms) that develops strength and endurance. Modifications and variations offered for various cardiovascular levels.


• Cardio Kickboxing-An intense aerobic class that utilizes the fundamentals of boxing and kickboxing including jobs, uppercuts, kicks, and more


• Zumba-Try this upbeat style of intense and sassy dance-aerobics workout with pulsating latin music. A great workout to pump up your body and spirit.


• Yoga Booty Ballet-A new style of yoga that blends upbeat moves and the grace and balance of ballet moves developing long, lean, and strong muscles.


• Hip Hop Funk -Get in shape through the rhythm of hip hop. Getting in shape and getting it done in style.

How to Fix your GPA and Your Body at the Same Time

If you're looking to improve more than your body (perhaps your GPA?), USC also offers workout classes that you can take as a course. Students have the option to take the class for a grade, pass/fail, or simply audit it. While these classes are less exotic than the ones you pay for, they are still tons of fun and get the exercising job done.

• Weight Training


• Self Defense


• Physical Conditioning


• Swimming


• Yoga


• Aerobics


• Step Aerobics


• Volleyball


• Tennis


• Soccer


• Basketball

Desperate to get outside? Lucky for you USC also has great outdoor exercise options. Students can take their workout routine to the McDonald Swim Center, tennis courts, or track. Many students also enjoy jogging, running, or walking around the 2 mile perimeter of campus. Make sure to be safe if you're going outside though!