Now, students can sweat away stress and remain fit as DAVV opens two gyms on campus

Indore: Devi Ahilya Vishwavidyalaya has established two open gyms on its Takshashila campus to expand fitness and sports facilities for students. The gyms were opened at two prominent locations — behind vice-chancellor's residence near the girls' hostel and adjacent to synthetic athletic track. Both facilities remain open during morning and evening hours, allowing students to work out before or after classes.The equipment includes air walkers, cross trainers, cycling stations, sit-up benches, shoulder wheels, and leg press units designed for outdoor conditions. These machines help users improve flexibility, balance, and muscle strength without the need for electricity. The setup supports full-body workouts and is suitable for beginners as well as regular fitness enthusiasts.
The initiative is intended to encourage students to focus on physical health alongside academic responsibilities. The university sports director Sudhira Chandel said the location of the gyms makes it easier for students, especially hostelers, to include exercise in their daily routine. With access to both the track and gym equipment, students can engage in strength training as well as cardio workouts at one place.The open gyms feature modern outdoor fitness equipment suitable for regular use. University officials stated that the equipment will be maintained and upgraded when required to ensure safety and effectiveness. In addition to students, campus residents and people living nearby were also permitted to use the facility, giving it a broader community benefit.Vice-chancellor Prof Rakesh Singhai announced that the open gym was named after Sushma Sarolkar, a university alumna, kho-kho gold medallist and Arjuna Award recipient. The naming honours her sporting achievements and aims to inspire students to pursue excellence in sports.Registrar Prajwal Khare said the university administration remains focused on student welfare and infrastructure growth. He added that more student-oriented facilities are planned in the future. Since the launch, participation steadily rose, with notable enthusiasm among hostel students, particularly female residents.