Out with the old, in with the new

DOVER AIR FORCE BASE, Del. -- Let's face it - many Team Dover members are fed up with the old fitness center. They are sick of the smell of more than 50 years of accumulated sweat, tired of the dilapidating facility, and bewildered by the labyrinth of hallways. They are ready for a change.

On Dec. 16, the much-anticipated, brand new $11 million fitness center is set to open. According to Mindy Rolkowski, fitness center director with the 436th Force Support Squadron, the new facility is the answer to many service members' wishes.

If someone can find an excuse not to come to the new facility I'd love to hear it - I can't think of one, said Rolkowski. The facility is brand new, the equipment is top of the line, and there's enough space so you don't have to hold hands with the person next to you.

Few rocks were left unturned when it came to planning the new facility, especially when it came to improving on the minor details that too often go unnoticed.

There is at least a two-foot space between machines for increased safety and comfort. Some machines are also wheelchair accessible. The building's humidity and heat governor is automated to adjust to ambient temperature outside. Each machine is man-powered to reduce energy usage, with the exception of treadmills, each of which is equipped with miniature television. Locker rooms are a far cry from its predecessor, sporting digital locks that eliminate the need to keep track of a physical key.

The floor plan also received much needed changes. The maze-like layout of the former facility has been replaced by an open workout area with high ceilings. From the fitness cell to the children's play area, each area has benefitted from increased space. The building faces true north, allowing for maximum exposure to sunlight from the large windowed wall.

No more are the days when Zumba class was interrupted by the left over equipment from Spin classes. There are dedicated rooms for fitness classes, the Health and Wellness Center and equipment rental and storage. From the front desk, fitness center staff can observe nearly all areas of the gym through windows or cameras - an innovation done for safety, not security concerns, said Rolkowski.