Students lift weights in the light-filled modern facilities of the University of Massachusetts Recreation Center
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Student Voices

UMass Activities: Join a Workout Class

If you want to stay active in a fun, positive, and uplifting environment, consider joining a group fitness class at the UMass Recreation Center. From cycling classes to Zumba to pilates, the Rec Center offers classes for everyone—beginner, intermediate, and advanced—interested in all different forms of fitness. 

Nearing the end of the year, I have set out on a mindfulness journey: to drink more water, read more books, go for walks, journal, and move my body in new ways. I have always been an active person and an avid gym attendee, but I have never ventured into the realm of workout classes. Maybe I was apprehensive about the difficulty level or nervous that I would feel embarrassed working out around others. Nevertheless, I wish I had taken advantage of the fantastic workout classes provided by the UMass Recreation Center sooner. I have begun regularly attending Vinyasa yoga classes in the morning in the last few weeks, about three days a week. This class has taught me mindfulness and meditation while challenging me to stretch my body. I have noticed that attending a yoga class in the morning has set me up for a positive and productive day. As a beginner at yoga, I am excited to learn more as I continue attending more classes. I have also taken a few Booty Burn and Full-Body Burn classes. I admit, these were a challenge, but it felt great to increase my heart rate and get a good workout in an upbeat and motivating environment. I left the classes feeling proud of myself and excited to go back for more.  

Tips for a great workout

  1. At the beginning of each class, the teacher reminds the group that this class is an entirely judgment-free zone, so remember to enjoy yourself and try your best; nobody cares what you are doing or what you look like. 
  2. Arrive on time.
  3. Go in with a calm and positive attitude.
  4. Remember that you are in control, and you can always skip or modify any instructions given to you by the teacher. 
  5. Try a variety of classes—there are so many to choose from.

How can I sign up?

Sign up for UMass group fitness class can be made through the app IMLeagues. Simply download the app, connect to UMass Rec-Center, and sign up. All classes are free to UMass students.