Six stereotypical students found in the gym

Every student gym has them and Bristol is no exception. Have you spotted them?

‘Bodybuilder Bill’

At first glance, you are not even sure if they are a student. I mean, it takes longer than a standard three year degree to get this big. Often fuelled by arrogance and pre-workout supplements. Their excessive grunts and sweat bring all in the gym to ask: ‘Did he really just lift that?’ Obviously a rugby player, wearing the full UBRFC attire, and not shutting up about how their coach should play them more often.

Bill’s pre-gym rituals in action

‘Tragic Tom’

Usually found entering the gym with ‘Bill’. Finally decided he needs to get bigger to fit into his friendship group. Can be found frequently looking at himself in the mirror to convince himself he is in good shape.  It would not be a surprise to find him lifting weights too heavy for himself also.

Tom and all his mates

‘Cardio Catherine’

The only form of exercise this character knows is the treadmill. This is despite the numerous wonderful sites to jog around in Bristol. Chatting to friends about how she got totally plastered on the last mixed lacrosse social and checking those all-important text messages whilst ‘working out’ is their favourite past time.

Catherine’s natural habitat

‘Nerdy Neil’

Usually found in the medical or engineering department 9-5 every day. However, by the evening this student is calculating in his head the most efficient exercises. No longer will he allow himself to be bullied by the sporting meatheads. Can be found with a notepad and pen to record such progress. Caution advised: avoid tension by not getting in the way of his prepared routine. If he wants that 25kg plate, let him have it.

Neil’s future ambitions

‘Clueless Callum’

In reality, they don’t want to be here. Attend the gym more so to convince themselves they are making an effort to get into shape. However, lack of research into this walk-of-life leaves them wondering from machine to machine reading the instructions. This is of little help. The pictures of the muscles used keep them occupied as their mind casts into the thousands of things they would rather be doing.

Callum’s train of thought

…that girl who lifts

At first, you are not sure if she is just lost. A girl in the weights room!? Every now and then this student can be found showing up the guys and lowering the self-esteems of the Callum’s and Tom’s. Initially she loved all the attention in the testosterone-fuelled basement of the Bristol gym. Now she is just creeped out by the perverted looks and stares she gets while squatting.