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Miami shows support for military in unique ways

Allison Gnaegy, For The Miami Student

These days, it seems like everywhere you look, Miami University has taken on a new initiative to improve the school, which typically results in some kind of recognition (think the building of the Farmer School, current development of the Armstrong Student Center, and the construction of new residence halls near MET Quad).

One of the university's more recent achievements sparked from an ongoing initiative to make Miami a top school for embracing military service members and veterans. Miami was recently named a Military Friendly School for 2010 by G.I. Jobs magazine, which means Miami is in the top 20 percent of colleges, universities and trade schools in the United States, doing the most to create a good experience on campus for military members.

Lou Caraglia, Miami Naval Reserve Officers Training Corps (ROTC) cadet has enjoyed his time on campus as a member of the reserves.

"Miami is just a friendly school in general," Caraglia said. "Being in the NROTC program makes it an even friendlier environment."

Miami University hosts an ROTC program for students interested in joining the Navy and Air Force. Students interested in the Army can participate in ROTC through Xavier University in Cincinnati.

"The people here at Miami have respect for you because they know what you have to go through every day of the week," Caraglia said. "In my short time at Miami, I have always been treated with respect from everyone in the Oxford community."

In addition to being rated as military-friendly due to policies, a new military-inspired workout regimen is also coming to campus.

The concept behind TRX® Suspension Training was created by the US Navy SEALS and developed by Fitness Anywhere®. According to Recreational Center informational material, the classes involve bodyweight exercises while suspended off the ground. Benefits of TRX® Suspension Training include increased power, strength, flexibility, balance and mobility, which can prevent future injuries and reduce the impact of the workout

In addition to being available for military reserve participants, the program is available to the general student, faculty and community populations.

"I've heard of it and may try it out," Tim Parker, Miami Air Force ROTC cadet said. "It seems like a really rigorous core workout."

Beginning Oct. 3, free TRX® orientation classes will begin to introduce students to the suspension equipment. Anyone can participate in the classes, as the intensity of the program can be chosen and catered to each participant. The cost of the workshop is $20 each day. More information on the classes can be accessed in the group class informational booklet at the Rec Center, as well as www.muohio.edu/groupfitness.

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Fitness Center hours and Group Fitness class offerings are available on the Rec Center webpage.