For most collegiettes, finding time to schedule in a 30 minute workout whilst juggling classes, homework, and a social life can be a job in itself. For some Binghamton students, working out actually is their job.
Erin van der Have, 20, splits her time between pursuing an Art History/German double major and working as a group exercise instructor. You may have seen her teaching the popular classes Boot Camp, Absolute Abs and Friday Funk at FitSpace, Binghamton’s on-campus fitness center.
Van der Have came upon the opportunity to become a FitSpace employee in the spring of 2009, when she took an internship class that trained her to become an instructor. Although she now teaches group exercise classes several times per week, van der Have told Her Campus that prior to attending Binghamton, she had never participated in a group exercise class.
“I was always very active, especially in high school where I ran track and cross country, but the first time I attended a group exercise class was here at Binghamton. Now I’ve been exposed to alternative forms of exercise such as yoga and I love it,” van der Have said.
And although holding down an on campus job can be stressful for even the most organized Binghamton students, van der Have says that teaching actually helps her maintain clarity in the midst of classes and schoolwork.
“Balancing any job while you’re going to school can be difficult, but it is often times a welcome break in my hectic schedule,” van der Have said. “Working out has always helped me clear my mind and focus on my work.”
With spring break less than 3 weeks away, there’s no doubt that FitSpace will be jam-packed with students hoping to get fit and bikini-ready. Van der Have offered advice for students hoping to get healthy in time for the break.
“Cardio is really the main thing anyone looking to get into shape should concentrate on. Lifting and core work will then show you the results you want to see, and help you to become a healthier individual!” van der Have explained.
Aside from motivating fellow students to better themselves, van der Have maintains that the best part about being a fitness instructor is being able to inspire other students to truly enjoy fitness.
“The best part about being a group exercise instructor is inspiring people to work out and showing them that being fit can be fun.”
To find out more about Erin’s classes and group exercise at FitSpace, check out the weekly schedule here at: http://www2.binghamton.edu/campus-recreation/fitness-wellness/schedule.html