Princeton University

Before classes take over your life, take some time to explore the athletic facilities. The hours are posted and are also available by calling the facilities hotline (8-4466). Dillon, the recreational gym, has an excellent fitness room, as well as a pool, squash courts, dance rooms, martial arts studios and basketball courts. Baker Rink, ol' Hobey's ice rink, opens to the public in late fall. You can sign up for gym classes -- golf, horseback riding, dance, aikido, tennis, fitness and so on -- in the second week of school. These classes are a lot of fun and can help you stay in shape. Throughout the year, Outdoor Action sponsors numerous trips, including backpacking, hiking, skiing, canoeing and other outdoor activities.

The Stephens Fitness Center sports all the fitness training equipment you could desire, and it generally sponsors events like fitness challenges or bench pressing competitions. Peak times are during the early morning, late afternoon and just before closing at 11:45 p.m.; during these times, be prepared to wait for the dozen or so treadmills and elliptical trainers. Dillon also offers squash courts, a spinning room and an Olympic-size swimming pool for student use.

The athletics department also runs dozens of physical education classes. Ranging from yoga to tae kwon do, scuba diving, ethnic dance and golf, these classes are open to interested undergraduates for a small fee. Sign up during September phys-ed registration in Dillon Gym, or online. Separate sign-up occurs for classes over break and in the spring.

View a video introduction to the facilities at Dillon Gym.
 
 
 
Playing golf
Much to the chagrin of some members of the private Springdale Golf Club (next to Forbes College), Princeton students are allowed on the links. Springdale is a very well-maintained, reasonably challenging golf course. You can either pay by the round, or buy an all-you-can-play season pass (generally a good idea if you plan on playing more than six rounds). Springdale also offers group lessons through the athletic department. If you become tired of getting attitude from the people at Springdale, there are three county courses that are reasonably priced. The Princeton Country Club is just five minutes away (next to MarketFair Mall) and welcomes beginners. Get a Mercer County ID for a reduced resident's rate.