An inside look at the fitness classes offered at the University of Guelph
According to the student mental health support center at the University of Michigan, some of the possible benefits of exercise include “reduced stress, release of endorphins, improved memory, increased energy, improved sleep [and] improved focus.” These benefits are especially important for students, and demonstrate that regular exercise is a healthy way of dealing with stress that may be caused by school.
Last Monday, at 12:05 p.m., I attended a class called FLEX. I decided to try a more strength-based fitness class this week in order to appeal to those who, like me, may not be cardio’s biggest enthusiast. This class is fast-paced, and targets several main muscle groups such as the back, chest, legs, and core. The instructor, Julia, keeps the room energized with her youthful enthusiasm and motivating words, and the upbeat, catchy music doesn’t hurt either.
Report Card for FLEX:
Level of Difficulty: Advanced
While multiple variations and hand weight selections are offered for almost every exercise, you will definitely need a good foundation of balance and core strength in order to get the most out of this class. Expect to work in multiple sets for the same muscle groups and be prepared to challenge a new muscle group with every class. With that being said, the instructor encourages all first timers to come back weekly in order to improve confidence with this exercise form. They say that practice makes perfect, and you will be sure to get a lot of practice from this hour long session!
Level of Fun: Medium
With a mix of retro and new pop music, the class is fun and the instructor is very engaging. You will have a pretty intense focus on the task at hand, but coordinating your movements to the beat makes it much more enjoyable.
Level of Socialization: Low
This class focuses a lot on using proper form throughout the exercises, which will keep you focused on your workout. However, I think that everyone in the class shares a mutual joy of jamming along to the catchy tunes played throughout the class. (Justin Timberlake, anyone?)
Overall Rating: 7/10
If your physical fitness interest lies in building lean, full-body muscle, then this is the class for you. Be sure to check it out on Mondays, Tuesdays and Fridays in room 302 of the Athletic Center.
It should be noted that all of the fitness classes offered in room 302 and the Red Pool in the Athletic Center are offered by drop-in rate and accept membership stickers. The drop-in fee is $3 per class for students, and the silver membership for the semester is a charge of $63. Both of these options as well as a full fitness schedule can be found at the main desk on the first level of the Athletic Center, and the semesterly membership can also be purchased online at www.gryphons.ca.