If you’re anything like me this spring, you’re likely approaching the midway point of this semester itching for an outlet from the chaos of classes, the pile-up of homework, and all things revolving around midterm exams. The ease of the first few weeks of school has likely died down and the reality of class expectations and an established routine has sunk in. It’s no surprise that most students’ countdown to spring break has already begun (in case you haven’t started counting, it’s only two weeks away)!
If you’re finding yourself in this same place, slowly but surely getting bored of the repetitiveness and developing that recurring desire for a mental break, rest assured that you are not alone! For some of us, this mental break calls for a well-deserved nap, an episode or two of our favorite show, or grabbing a quick coffee with friends. Whatever your desired mental break, we all must implement at least an hour or so within our busy and chaotic schedules to allow for a reset and give our brains a break!
If you’re uncertain of what this brain break might look like for you, a great place to start that I highly recommend (and have found works best for me), is engaging in some form of physical activity. Not only does it allow me to escape the noise and stresses associated with school, but it also encourages continuous productivity within my day. If you’re new to physical activity, the gym, and/or group exercise classes, you are not alone, as most individuals face the same feelings of uncertainty and fear you may be experiencing! Find a friend that is similarly interested in getting their foot into the door of fitness and allow your stresses to slip away, all while maintaining your social life and an active and productive lifestyle.
Chico State’s very own Wildcat Recreation Center (WREC), makes for an especially convenient and easy place to kick off your fitness interests! Provided its close proximity to campus, students have the flexibility to easily access the gym around their class schedules without the hassle of commuting. Not only is the WREC free of cost for full-time enrolled students, but it has over 60 different group exercise classes offered each week that are open to students of all differing fitness levels. Classes are primarily taught by student instructors of Chico State and offered at various times throughout the day (typically ranging from 30 minutes to an hour for each class). All group exercise classes are offered in the rooms directly above the staircase and can be found on the Wildcat Recreation Center website. If you’re looking to visit the WREC and it’s your first time, follow these three pointers to reduce the nerves and get in and out with less uncertainty!
- Download the WREC app (search “WREC” in the app store, it’s the one with the Chico State logo).
- Once you’re in the app, select the top left barcode button and log in using your Chico State login info.
- A barcode will pop up and simply scan it at any of the three scanners located on the right side of the entry gates.
Simply show up to your preferred class with a few minutes to settle in and any/all necessary equipment for the exercise will be provided! Finding the right class for you and your athletic abilities can be difficult. Below I have listed some of the most popular offerings with additional information on what to expect!
- Butts and Guts: This is a lower body-focused exercise class that aims to sculpt and strengthen the abdomen, glutes, and thigh regions of the body. The class is perfect for all levels of fitness and can be taken at your preferred pace! If you’re looking for a moderate to high-intensity exercise that will leave your legs burning, this is the exercise for you! For this semester, Butts and Guts classes can be attended Monday and Wednesday from 6:15 p.m. – 6:45 p.m., Tuesday and Thursday from 5:30 p.m. – 6:00 p.m., and Sunday from 5:00 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.
- Pilates sculpt: The WREC offers both general pilates and pilates sculpt. However, sculpt pilates is seemingly more popular provided its focus is primarily on core and its incorporation of resistance equipment. If you are looking for a moderately intensive exercise that will allow for a good stretch and core workout, this would be the perfect option for you! For this Spring 2024 semester, pilates sculpt is offered Monday and Wednesday from 9:00 a.m. – 9:45 a.m. This time may seem early to some, but trust me when I say it’s well worth it!
- Rhythmic Spin: There is both a regular spin and rhythmic spin option offered at the WREC with both classes serving as a great option for students interested in a high-intensity cardio exercise. The spin classes offered at the WREC are unique to other offered group exercise classes in that the room is dimly lit and the playlists are top tier. Oftentimes, depending on the day of the week, there are themes for the playlists which makes for a super upbeat time! Rhythmic spin is offered Monday and Wednesday at 3:00 p.m. – 3:45 p.m., 6:15 p.m. – 7 p.m., 7:15 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. and Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6:15 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. -8:15 p.m. (there is also a class offered on Thursdays from 8:15 a.m. – 9: 00 a.m.).
- Yoga: The WREC offers power yoga, hatha yoga, vinyasa yoga, and general yoga. Each class offers a unique perspective to the practice and focuses on a variety of muscle groups and outcomes depending on the class. The WREC’s yoga classes are perfect for those looking to improve balance and coordination while pairing strength, flexibility, and meditation. This would be a great option for those looking for more of a low-intensity, calming exercise. Taking these classes when you’re in the midst of a stressful week is such a game changer. All yoga classes are held at various times Monday – Friday and on Sundays.
- Swim fit: Much to students’ surprise, the WREC offers weekly group exercise classes at the pool, located on the backside of the locker rooms! Unique sequences of workouts are instructed during these classes and feedback is provided to allow for a more effective workout! While all students are welcome, the WREC requests that you be capable of swimming four complete lengths of the pool without having to take a break. Swim fit is offered this semester on Monday-Thursday from 5:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Hopefully you’ve been inspired to find a class that is of most interest to you! If perhaps, you’re uncertain that exercise would serve you best in the sense of establishing a brain break, explore alternative options! Do whatever best supports you and your brain toward getting through this spring semester with as little stress as possible. Here is your gentle reminder that it’s okay to take that break, it’s okay to be challenged, and it’s okay to not have a day full of ongoing obligations and activities. Set aside time for yourself in each day, your brain will thank you later!