For example, we have an upper body ergometer, which is similar to a stationary bicycle, but you operate it with your arms. People who have limited or no use of their legs can use this kind of machine to get their heart rates up. Gender issues also enter into center design. According to Verde, women make up 70 percent of the student population at Cabrini College. This fact proved important in the design of the college fitness center.
Women are also more likely than men to use stair-steppers.
In addition, women prefer different kinds of weight training than men. In designing a center, you have to factor in gender considerations. You don't want to have to buy new machines after a year and dispose of unused machines. Purchasing the Equipment Center directors agree on the importance of a well-crafted bid specification in the purchase of equipment. Our goal was to find equipment that would last for 10 years.