An aquatic getaway
Outdoor activities may be sparse in Fargo during the winter months, but NDSU offers one favorite pastime that is indoors.
The Bison Sports Arena is home to the NDSU pool and steam room. The facilities are open to students, faculty and staff allowing them an opportunity to enjoy one summertime activity indoors year-round.
According to the BSA brochure, all facilities, including pool and racquetball courts are generally available for use during open recreation hours. Specific times are announced on the Rec Line and are also posted at the south-door entrance.
Since the BSA is a part of NDSU, open pool hours are exclusively for those closely affiliated with NDSU.
According to the BSA brochure, a valid NDSU ID is required upon entering the BSA and to check out equipment. Participation is limited to NDSU students, faculty and staff but family night is offered generally Monday nights.
While the North Dakota winters have the potential to be very long and cold possibly force those brave enough to endure the torturous months to think of nothing more than frozen water, the BSA’s pool provides students with an opportunity to break out of the norm and enjoy an evening of swimming.
“ I like to swim at the BSA after playing basketball, because it’s refreshing and something I enjoy doing with my friends,” NDSU senior Cole Christenson said.
Although many students enjoy going to the pool with friends and jumping off the diving board or playing fun games, others take advantage of the ability to swim laps, using the pool as a great aerobic activity.
According to the BSA brochure, the BSA swimming pool is equipped with seven 25-yard lanes and a diving board. Lifeguards are on duty at all times during open swimming.
After a long swim, a session in the weight room, or an intense game of basketball, many enjoy the luxury of the steam room to relieve sore muscles, clear the lungs and warm up before venturing back outside.
“ The steam room is so relaxing and a fun place to chill out after a long day,” Christenson said.
An on-campus pool gives students yet another reason not to complain about being bored and never having anything to do in Fargo.
“ Having a pool on campus is great because it offers something for students to get involved in at no extra cost. My friends and I like to swim, and with a pool on campus, we don’t have to risk being caught sneaking into a hotel to use its pool and sauna,” Christenson said.