Going to the gym is super beneficial for the mind and the body. It not only helps you grow stronger physically, but it can also keep you in a good headspace and rejuvenate your mind. There are plenty of ways to stay active, especially during college. Most colleges typically have a fitness facility that is open to all students. Inside these facilities, there are a plethora of machines and equipment that you can utilize to exercise and move your body. From yoga mats to Smith machines, college fitness centers are a great place to start or continue your fitness goals while you are away at school. However, it can be hard to know what to do at the gym, especially if it is your first time. As someone who works at the fitness center on campus, anytime I see someone who is a little apprehensive about going the gym, I recommend them trying out our GroupEx classes. Merrimack College’s fitness center has approximately 10 different kinds of fitness classes available to students, staff, and faculty, led entirely by Merrimack College students. Fitness classes are great for new and incoming gym members because you don’t have to know what exercises to do or how to do them, because the instructor will be there to guide and motivate you along the way. Our Her Campus Chapter has coordinated with our campus fitness and recreation team to provide a week full of classes for our members to experience. Here is a rundown of the kinds of classes we have to offer as part of our annual Her FitRec week at Merrimack!
Yoga Restore
Yoga Restore is a 45-minute, slow, restful yoga class that focuses on deep stretching and breathwork to alleviate muscle tension and stress. It goes through basic yoga poses, but takes a more passive approach to yoga, allowing deep reflection, rest, and relaxation. This class is great for anyone who just needs a break from school, work, or life in general and to focus on themselves and their bodies.
Intro to the Gym
Intro to the Gym is a new option created this semester that gives Merrimack College students, faculty, and staff a rundown of the basics behind the gym. It is typically divided into two days. The first day has a personal trainer explaining how to use different machinery, gauging where the client is physically, and providing light exercises to get them moving. The second day is more intense. The personal trainer and the client work together to come up with a workout routine that best fits the client’s needs and goals.
Her Campus at Merrimack decided to create an event out of the first session. During the session, members will learn about different pieces of equipment, learn how to use different machines, and work together to create different exercises that push them to the next level, all while enjoying the camaraderie of our lovely chapter!
Zumba
Zumba is a 45-minute, high-energy, dance-based cardio class designed to keep people moving and grooving! The class is organized by a bunch of short, easy-to-follow pieces of choreography that are inspired by Latin and other high-energy dance moves. Let’s just say that there is no dull moment in a Zumba class. This class is great for anyone who wants to start getting active, but may be too intimidated to go through a traditional workout. It’s also great for anyone who likes to just get up and dance!
Pilates
Pilates is a 45-minute full-body workout, focused on core strength and breathwork, that works through the mat and utilizes props such as a ball, ankle weights, a block, and/or lightweight dumbbells, which can be anywhere from 3-5 pounds. Through taking a Pilates class, you not only get a workout in, but also get to work on your balance, flexibility, and control, all while listening to great music and having fun LED lights on in the background! While the weights you may be lifting are light, Pilates classes are no joke! They have you shaking and working up a sweat. However, they are a great class to bond with other girls and get a great workout in! Pilates is an absolute favorite of mine.
Run Club
Run Club is an event that runs twice a week where students will follow a set pace and run/jog on and off campus! Runs can be anywhere from 2-4 miles long, but can be taken at your own pace. You will always be with a group, so don’t worry about not having support with you along the way if you get tired or lost. It is a great way to get started with running or even just a good way to get steps in!
Her Campus is collaborating with Run Club by hosting a run and downtown stroll where we will venture to downtown North Andover, taking in all the impeccable fall scenery and fresh air! At the end, we will be stopping for smoothies and socialization with our girls! Whether you want to run or walk, there is always a spot for you at Her Campus.
Her Campus prides itself on inspiring countless college-aged women to become the best versions of themselves, whether that’s through marking, social media, or writing. However, one simple way to become the best version of yourself is to get active. Whether that is taking a walk outside or participating in a high intensity Zumba class, there is always a way to stay active, and more important, stay involved. Her Campus at Merrimack would like to thank Merrimack FitRec for making this collaboration possible. So go on and get out there; try a workout class through Her Campus- you might just find your next passion!