By: Brittny Valdes/Contributing Writer
The Biscayne Bay Campus Recreation Center has a program that aims to provide gym-goers, in addition to physical well-being, an abundance of prizes and opportunities.
The Rec Buck Incentive Program is designed to give the committed few a gift of appreciation, and those that aren’t a little push of motivation.
Rec Bucks are vouchers given to students every time they dedicate themselves to a healthy lifestyle. Redeemable only at the BBC Recreation Center, students can accumulate “bucks” whenever they sweat at the gym or participate at any given Fitness Center event. Simply stop by the Membership Services Desk when leaving your workout and collect your bucks. Prizes are redeemed at the same location and can be done at the end of the semester or any time in between.
“The program has created quite a buzz on campus. As participants enter the fitness center, the first thing they inquire about is what are rec bucks?” said Jonathan Torrey, BBC’s Recreation administer and specialist. Torrey, alongside Elias Bardawil, Campus Recreation Director, framed this program to easily yet effectively meet every individual in their demand for healthier living.
“Rec Bucks provide opportunities for the development of a healthy lifestyle, lifelong friendships and the advancement of the university experience. It also gives participants incentive to come in and explore the facility, as well as learn about new up and coming events held by the BBC Recreation Department,” stated Torrey.
Bardawil was unavailable for comment as of press time.
The possibilities in which to earn Rec Bucks are many, and for all of the different Recreation Events, different quantities of bucks are given. According to Torrey, the winner of the 2010 Madden Tournament received $50 Rec Bucks as a grand prize.
Still, one of the best parts about collecting is that you don’t have to do it alone; anyone whose goal is to get fit and stay fit is eligible for participation, be it students, staff, alumni or even community members.
“I think the Rec Bucks are awesome! I exercise every day with or without being rewarded for it, so having this extra incentive only makes me feel better about my workout,” said Sherezade Rodriguez, a senior public relations major.
The benefit of the buck is its encouragement for one to return on a continuous basis, and since all prizes are fitness related, they aid in preparing anyone for further fitness endeavors. For example, some of the prizes for lesser values include: a steel mug, a workout towel, an ultimate sport bag and more. The Grand Prize, which is worth 100 Rec Bucks, is a day spent on an adventurous Kayak Excursion with 8 other participants.
Every visit to the Rec Center counts, and the more students go, the more they will know about special events taking place.
About Post Author
