Coach Ostler brings continued improvement to strength and conditioning program

The strength and conditioning program at Norwich is notorious for its high intensity and demanding workout programs, especially in team workouts. With the recent addition of Jo Lynn Ostler, the strength and conditioning program has improved further. 

"I came to Norwich a year ago in hopes of joining a driven, disciplined and physically shape community, and I believe I have found it here," said Ostler, Maroon and Gold Athletic Association (MGAA) coordinator

"My goal in being here is to provide the best physical advice and conditioning programs for every student here on campus," she said. 

According to Paul Bova, assistant vice president for alumni and volunteer relations, "Jo brings a unique perspective and ability to build relationships along with her tie into the athletic world which makes it all the more special to have her on board with the MGAA."

Ostler has taken part in various activities since she has been at Norwich. In April 2010, she played a huge organization role for the lab component of the third-year exercise physiology class run by Prof. Elizabeth Wuorinen. 

The lab for the exercise was the first of three tests the class would conduct for an end-of-the-semester project analyzing the effects of water replenishment on heart rate, blood-glucose levels and perceived-energy ratings. For the second run, the athletes drank a measured quantity of water at certain time intervals. The third run, they drank an energy sports drink.

"It was great that the participating students rose to the occasion and all of them performed phenomenally for that lab exercise," said Ostler. "Without the willingness and commitment from our students, this wouldn't have been possible."

Before being hired to rebuild the MGAA, Ostler helped Coach Jeff Kruger with team lifts and basic functions in the Plumley Armory. 

Ostler has a rigorous and demanding workout routine, according to various football players. 

"Her workouts are really tough, she doesn't mess around," said Nathan Fortezzo, 21, an engineering management major from Branford Conn. "She makes it feel like we have been there for hours after only about 15 minutes."

In addition to her unforgiving workouts in the weight room, Ostler also offers a water aerobics class to students every Wednesday of the semester from noon to 1 p.m. The class is open to the first 12 students who show up, according to Ostler.