​THE LEACH CENTER

The pursuit of creating a map of the Leach Center underlies the entire meaning of what my intent is – fitness. From all the gyms that I have been to, the Leach Center struck me with awe at first sight. Having multistory usage for weights, equipment, a track, etc., this dynamic space incorporates the essence of what fitness should be. For this map, I wanted to establish the exact location of the basic equipment or utilities that the Leach makes available to students. For example, where the treadmills are, where the track is, where the ellipticals are, and so on. Just to build a basic conception of which areas are used for a specific kind of workout. After establishing a general floor plan for each individual floor - there are 3 stories – from there I intend to pinpoint/tack suggested circuits of working out made available by the consultants that work there. This will be the movement I incorporate for this complex map. This map will only include general and somewhat specific locations, due to the large capacity of such a building.
 
The overall purpose for this map is to introduce those who are not familiar with the space with the amenities made available. From there they can pinpoint suggested targeted workouts or freely go around to the locations that provide the kind of workout they are looking to do for a certain day.
 
After creating such a dynamic map, I’ve learned that it’s actually quite important to familiarize yourself with a place you are unknown to. I remember when I first started at the Leach Center, I had no idea where everything was and I didn’t want to embarrass myself having to look around and guess. I feel like the map provided for a great basic concept for new goers that will help locate where everything is and become more familiar with the cultural background of intense working out. For different machines and weight gradients determine what kind of fitness you are into. Also, though the suggested circuits are not made for everyone, it allows for anyone to have a basic foundation and build from there on their fitness.
 
Another thing I learned about creating this map is that maybe it is necessary to not include every little aspect. This was a complex map as it is and if I were to really get down to it and include every room, corner, window, door, it would have been too much and lost its purpose. I feel like it was better to only include the essentials to the map and the intent you are trying to get across. If a map is too complicated and detailed to every little thing, it leaves a questionable impression on what really is this maps intention. That is why I felt the need to only include basic and specific locations of equipment, etc. to focus on the purpose of the map, and not lose that purpose.