Why GUSA’s compulsory gym membership is actually a good thing

Amid the controversial price rises for gym membership at Glasgow University, the Glasgow Guardian recently pointed the finger back at our very own Sports Association.

Glasgow Guardian blasted GUSA for making membership to the gym compulsory alongside membership of any of our sports teams. Not one to shy away from controversy myself, here's why I believe that GUSA is perfectly entitled to this:

1. It's actually bloody cheap!

Let's address the pesky price element. Yes, the price may have increased by £25 for this year taking it to £125, but with just a bit of perspective we can see that this is incredible value for money. The Stevie has everything that an avid gym-goer could ever need. It provides daily fitness classes and access to the swimming pool, sauna and steam room year all year round. When you compare this to the likes of PureGym which is £192 for 12 months and Anytime Fitness which is a startling £360 for 12 months, then any student can surely see this is not a price to be snubbed.

Those treadmill views tho

2. If you're enthusiastic enough about sport the price will not put you off

The Glasgow Guardian argues that the University itself is losing out on talented sporting individuals. However, it is undoubtedly a very small proportion – if anything at all. Those who are enthusiastic about sport are far more likely to frequent the gym than someone who has maybe bought the membership solely with the goal to get fit or to keep fit.

Go GUSA

3. You don't lose out on any social benefits from sports teams if you can't afford to pay membership to a team

One of the most important aspects of GUSA and all it has to offer is the social side of sport. Many GUSA sports teams have tackled the problem of people not wanting to pay the full price of membership. Want to come along and partake socially but not train with the club or join the gym? No problem. The hockey club, to name but one of many sports teams, offers social membership for only £10. So really if being sociable is your main priority there is really no excuse not to join.

So much room for activities!

So stop slagging off our sports association and get involved! GUSA is a great organisation that benefits so many students even with its compulsory membership of the gym. Contrary to what other Glasgow Uni publications might think, The Tab loves GUSA.