As the temperatures rise, exercise buffs and the fitness-fickle turn away from indoor activities in search of outdoor stimulation.

Recreation Services Director Larry Cooney said he sees an annual decrease in participation at the recreation facilities during this time of year.

“There is generally a decrease in activity [during the spring],” Cooney said. “There is a lot of enthusiasm in the fitness area prior to spring break, then it drops after spring break. [Attendance] will rejuvenate in late summer and fall.”

Some students take advantage of the warm weather to exercise outdoors.

“I used to work out at the rec, but now that the weather is getting nicer, I go out and rollerblade,” said Katie Artes, freshman in pre-business.

Whereas the other recreational facilities are seeing a slight drop in participation, Outdoor Recreational Services is witnessing a flurry of activity as the temperatures climb, said Joan McBride, Recreational Services program coordinator.

“We are just now winding up to our busiest season,” McBride said. “Our largest percentage of equipment rentals are between April and September. Our staff goes through review training.”

Cooney said warm weather rentals such as canoes, kayaks and tents are very popular right now.

“Canoes are being checked out a lot right now by individuals, houses, fraternities and sororities,” Cooney said. “Some check them out by the trailer load.”

McBride said camping gear is also a common rental as spring approaches.

“The weekend before Veishea, a fraternity rented at least 50 percent of our tents,” she said.

McBride said the Outdoor Recreational Services staff makes renting equipment easy.

“When people rent a canoe, we give them the canoe, paddles and lifejackets and load the boat on top of their car for them,” she said. “It’s hassle-free renting.”

Besides offering equipment, Outdoor Recreational Services also offers students and faculty the opportunity to participate in workshops and weekend and extended trips.

“We offer recreation trips and workshops that are very well-attended,” Cooney said. “We’re offering workshops on canoeing, kayaking, fly fishing, outdoor cooking, sailing and orienteering.”