No more excuses, free aerobic classes

With cold winter weather in the air, the idea of fitting into a bathing suit this summer is far from warm. With the free aerobic classes offered at the Swenson Gym, students can get a jump start on getting in shape.

Through student fees and funding, student participation and surveys, these classes are free to students, faculty and staff. For $2-$5 a semester, students get a membership paid for by their student fees that gives them access into the gym, track, weight area and aerobic classes.

Classes are taught by nationally certified instructors or those who are completing a prep course. Most instructors plan each workout before hand to make sure the program flows smoothly. Programs are based off of a 32 count arrangement, one dance pattern or step pattern for 32 counts of music.

"The longer instructors teach, the easier it gets," said Kristi Beyer, fitness and customer service coordinator. "They are always four steps ahead."

Instructors also have to have basic knowledge of anatomy and kinesiology, as well as know how to assess someone's fitness level and improve it.

The gym offers nine aerobic classes based on the student survey taken fall semester. The survey asked students what types of programs they were interested in and what times they were available to attend aerobic classes.

Cardio Kickboxing is similar to kickboxing, but focuses on a steady cardio workout instead of the fighting aspect.

"I go every week to Cardio Kickboxing," said Sarah Kramer, Weber State University freshman. "My first time I about died, but I am getting better."

Progressive step is a step aerobic class that combines academic and drop-in classes. Ultimate step increases the intensity by starting low and adding more steps. Cycle Fit, similar to spinning classes, is offered at the gym and at the University Village. City Beat combines upbeat hip hop and funk dance moves into a cardio workout.

"If you're a beginner or advanced, it is a great workout to keep you moving," said Aaron Sorensen, a WSU freshman with dance experience.

Hydrozone is water exercises in the pool. Sports Conditioning is designed for the choreographically challenged with station-oriented workouts. Yoga and Cardio Party are instructor's choice of any of the listed workouts.

"You never know what you're going to get except a good workout," Beyer said.

"Everyone should come and experience the fun," said Gina Tackett, instructor of four of the nine classes.

Participation is the key to making these classes work. Classes that have low attendance will be cut from the schedule, but the classes that have high involvement will remain on the fitness schedule for the following semester.

"I am trying to get into shape," said Elise Groves, WSU freshman. "[I've] got to lose the freshman 15."

"Our participation level is always high throughout January because everyone has their New Year's resolutions to get into shape, and then by the second or third week in February the participation goes down. Then, two weeks before spring break we see an influx of students getting ready for their bathing suits," Beyer said.

Not only is the option to workout free to students, but it is also a great way for students to stay healthy. Fifty percent of the nation is obese, Beyer said.

It is recommended to work out for at least 30 minutes to an hour, three to five times a week for four to six weeks before seeing improvement.

"Don't look at the pounds or the scale; look at the inches," Tackett said.

You can leave a message for correspondent Jennifer Wozab by calling 626-7655.