Spartanburg Methodist College administrators, trustees, donors and construction personnel gathered yesterday to break ground on the first student fitness center on the college’s campus. The groundbreaking marks an important milestone in the construction of campus facilities identified in the college’s ten-year master plan, which was completed in 2016.

“We believe education should feed the mind, spirit and body,” President Scott Cochran said during the ceremony. “This new facility will make it easier for our students to stay healthy while they pursue their college goals, and they’re extremely excited about it.”

The new 4,000 square foot student fitness center will be located beside the William S. Moore Student Athletic Activities Building, or “Moore Gym” as it’s more commonly known. Moore Gym was built in 1939. There is no exercise equipment in the Moore Gym. Students who play on one of SMC’s 14 intercollegiate athletic teams use a conditioning and weight room in Jesse L. Bridges Arena, which was built in the 70s.

John Moore, the son of William S. Moore and a member of the SMC board of trustees, said the new student fitness center would have appealed to his father. “This project represents the Moore family’s continued commitment to the mission of Spartanburg Methodist College. My father would have been proud to be a part of it and excited about the opportunities that lie ahead for SMC and its students,” he said.

The new student fitness center will include cardio and exercise machines, free weights and an aerobics room. Exercise classes will include yoga, Zumba, barre and Pilates classes.

The building is expected to be completed in October. It is designed by McMillan Pazdan Smith and will be built by Maven Construction.