Health Center Coming to Executive Blvd.
A new health center is planned for Executive Boulevard. By the fall of 2000, a 12,000-square-foot facility will open with basketball courts that can be converted for volleyball or other indoor activities. In addition to aerobics and weight lifting, there will be approximately five step machines and treadmills, four lifecycles, three recumbent lifecycles, two rowing machines and numerous dumbbells, benches, cable crossovers and free weights for the clientele. A separate room will be provided for aerobics with lessons taught by qualified instructors. Also, classes will be held on nutrition and other health improvement topics. The new facility will also sport one standard size racquetball court. Separate showers and lockers will be provided for women and men; each will contain eight showers.
The Division of Space and Facility Management, ORS, teamed up with the exercise subcommittee of NIH's worksite health promotion committee to develop the concept and specifications for this project. The justification was based on several surveys and research data reviewed by the team. Comparisons were made with other agencies that had similar facilities and revealed that NIH fell short on the amount of space allocated to this type of activity. With occupancy of the Neuroscience Center Bldg. earlier this year, NIH now employs approximately 4,000 staff on the boulevard. Some of these workers were asked to identify what they wanted to see in the new health facility. The amenities being planned are a result of their answers. The NIH Recreation and Welfare Association will manage the health center once it is built. The NIH Record will announce the opening date of the new center.
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