Some people spent quarantine working out and eating healthy. I did the exact opposite. Without access to the gym, I found it difficult to exercise, and I hated trying to find an at-home routine to do by myself. When returning to campus this fall, I was excited to finally have access to the Rec Center again. After a year of struggling to stick to a routine, I’m finally at a point where I actually enjoy working out, and it’s all thanks to the group fitness classes at the Rec Center.
I’ve taken workout classes occasionally in the past, but this semester they’ve become a big part of my routine. Workout classes actually force me to stick to a routine. Rather than procrastinating going to the gym or skipping it altogether, I sign up for a class the day before, and then I have to actually to go the class the next day. Sometimes the hardest part of working out is simply making the decision to go. It’s much easier knowing that I’m going to the gym at a certain time with no decision-making involved.
I also love that with classes at the Rec Center, I can do a different workout every day. There’s nothing worse than doing the same boring workout by yourself day in and day out. Thanks to the Rec Center, I can do yoga one day, boot camp the next, and then spin or barre. There are so many options, which keeps things interesting and fun. Plus, the instructors are trained in designing workouts, meaning I get a much better workout than when I attempt to create my own routine.
Another great part of group fitness classes is the music. I often get sick of my workout playlist, but going to a workout class means having fun music blasting through the speakers to distract me from my pain. (I’m kidding… kind of.)
Of course, the best thing about workout classes is that they’re so much more fun than working out alone. After being isolated for so long, it’s nice to be around people again, and I think it helps me get a better workout. Sure, nobody around me cares if I give up on my plank, but I still feel like I’d be letting people down (including myself) if I quit. It’s so motivating to have people around. I like going to classes with friends, but even in a class full of strangers, it’s nice to be with a group of people who are taking an hour out of their day to do something good for themselves.
Workout classes have helped me go to the gym consistently, and I feel like I’m getting stronger which is very rewarding. But beyond that, they’ve helped me feel excited to work out again. I don’t dread exercise anymore because I enjoy going to classes at the Rec Center. So, if you’re bored with your current workout routine or just want to try something new, I highly recommend taking a workout class.
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