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Micheal Hernandez cycles to the Fitness Court® at Albany College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences (ACPHS) every day
Every morning, Micheal bikes to the Albany College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences (ACPHS) Fitness Court®, a journey that not only serves as a warm-up but also immerses him in the beauty of the great outdoors.
“Getting out every morning to ride a bike and hit the Fitness Court® keeps my weight in a healthy range and provides me with cardio and strength training,” Michael shares. For him, the benefits extend far beyond physical health. Regular exercise boosts his energy levels, reduces inflammation, and helps him manage the stresses of a demanding job.
When the ACPHS Fitness Court® launched in late fall 2022, Michael was excited to see this free amenity available to Albany residents, as well as those on the ACPHS campus. Accessible community spaces encourage people to get outside and engage in physical activity, which has been shown to improve mental health, reduce the risk of chronic diseases, and foster a sense of community. Michael's experience highlights these benefits perfectly.
My mind gets less cluttered and some of my best ideas come when I’m in the workout ‘zone.' This clarity and emotional resilience are just some of the rewards the Fitness Court® has brought to my daily routine.
Michael was initially drawn to the Fitness Court® because of its accessibility and the freedom it offers.
“It is located outdoors, has no monthly fees, and is accessible all the time,” he explains. The ability to work out whenever he wants, combined with the structured routines available for all fitness levels, made it the perfect fit for his needs. Starting at the beginner level of workouts offered on the free Fitness Court® App, Michael has steadily progressed to more advanced routines, showcasing his dedication and determination.
The Fitness Court App’s check-in feature helps him track his progress and stay motivated through social media engagement. “Working out can become a real slog if I don’t keep it fresh and find ways to motivate myself. I find that social media can be an effective motivator,” Michael notes. He enjoys the sense of community that comes from sharing his achievements and seeing his friends' check-ins, which in turn inspires him to stay consistent.
Every morning, Michael combines his bike ride with a circuit training session at the Fitness Court® before heading home, refreshed and ready to tackle the day. This routine not only keeps him physically fit but also mentally sharp and emotionally balanced. It's a powerful example of how integrating outdoor fitness into one's daily life can lead to holistic well-being.
