Off-campus fitness classes and gym memberships can take a severe bite out of a college student’s budget.
But what students can get — where the average adult can’t — are free fitness courses offered at their university.
Little known to most students, UB offers 22 fitness courses, including running, swimming, self defense and yoga. These courses, worth one credit each, offer structured, low-stress environments to learn a new skill or practice an old one. All skill levels are welcome and a great opportunity to meet others with similar interests.
About 2,600 students take one of the courses each year, according to Jessica Nyrop — UB’s associate director for fitness and instruction. As that amount only comes up to around 13% of the total UB student population, Nyrop believes there’s room for increased participation.
“I think students may not realize that REC classes are available and may not understand the variety of opportunities offered,” Nyrop said. “Our classes are designed to meet students where they are and provide an opportunity to learn that REC classes are about participation, personal growth, wellness. Not about being the best at an activity.”
Beyond physical conditioning, fitness classes help lower cortisol levels and combat anxiety. While the classes are a fun addition to a student's schedule, the classes also give students an opportunity to be “active, reduce stress, meet other students, learn new skills, and develop healthy habits that carry beyond their college years,” said Nyrop.
For students that don’t have room for a credited class in their schedule, UB Recreation also hosts weekly fitness classes on North Campus. Classes run throughout the day with no long-term commitment required — simply walk in whenever there’s free time. Additionally, the university’s Health Promotion office hosts yoga and meditation classes biweekly focusing on stress relief, breathing techniques and overall mental wellbeing.
With college life constantly pulling students between lecture halls, assignments and jobs, setting aside at least one hour a week for a fitness class can completely change the trajectory of the semester. Whether it’s discovering a new hobby or just blowing off steam from the long school week, UB’s fitness classes are awaiting you.
The features desk can be reached at features@ubspectrum.com.
Photo: Paul Hokanson/UB Athletics
