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Wilson's Weights Getting Pumped Up

Weight room to temporarily close beginning May 18

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Old weight machines will be replaced before renovations are complete in June.

Changes are coming to the Wilson Recreation Center.Beginning May 18, Duke will start a renovation process to upgrade Wilson's weight room, replacing current equipment - which is 10 to 12 years old - with about 30 new weight machines from Life Fitness. During renovations, other portions of the recreation center will remain open. Work is expected to be completed by the end of June.While renovations are taking place, gym members can take advantage of their dual membership to Duke fitness facilities and use the Brodie Recreation Center on East Campus, which features a variety of lifting machines and free weights.In addition to new weight equipment, the renovation will include new flooring that is easier to mop and clean, and walls will receive a new coat of Duke blue and grey paint. Cardio equipment - like treadmills, ellipticals and stationary bikes - are leased, so they will not be affected by the renovations.Lee Tucker, director of recreation facilities, said replacing the equipment has been a long time coming. It became a priority after discussing the renovations with gym staff and Duke community members who use the gym on a regular basis. Tucker said the new machines - including bench, shoulder and leg press machines. among others - will offer a range of lifts and will be split into groupings for beginner, intermediate and expert lifters."We didn't want to leave out anyone who hasn't worked out before," Tucker said. "We want to make sure that if someone walks into our gym for the first time, they can feel good about sitting down on a machine and trying something new."For more information and updates on renovations, visit the Department of Health, Physical Education and Recreation website.