Fall semester is just beginning, so it’s the ideal time to find a way to stay in shape and avoid the “freshman
15”. As we all get back into the daily grind, it can become stressful to squeeze in an exercise session. The most basic form of exercise is running or walking, but as we all know, that can seem repetitive and boring. Here are Her Campus Kansas’ top five alternatives to running for KU students.
1. CrossFit
CrossFit is relatively new to the Lawrence area, but it’s rapidly spreading throughout the country. CrossFit offers a high intensity 60-minute class focused on conditioning and strength training. It’s intense exercise, but don’t let that stop you from trying it out. CrossFit works with all different ability levels and tailors the workout to the individual. To begin, go online to CrossFit Lawrence under “Get Started” and you can try your first class for free!
2. BodyPump
BodyPump is a weight lifting class focusing on strengthening every major muscle group in your body. It’s ideal cross-training for runners, and is an easy-to-follow class for newbie weight lifters. You use lighter weights with high repetitions to sculpt the muscles and get the heart rate up. The class incorporates different songs for each muscle group with choreography to guide you toward a more fit body. BodyPump is offered at KU’s recreation center six days a week at various times. Check the KU group fit schedule for more class options!
3. Title Boxing
With the original Title Boxing Club opening so close to KU in Overland Park, it is no surprise it’s popularity spread to Lawrence late last year. Title Boxing offers boxing and kickboxing classes, both requiring hand wraps and gloves. Title boxing and kickboxing both offer an hour-long nonstop workout session focused on intensity and technical movements. Title Boxing enhances your overall fitness through weight training, cardio, and strengthening movements. Title Boxing Club in Lawrence offers both boxing and kickboxing seven days a week with various times throughout the day for both classes. Learn more about taking Title Boxing classes in Lawrence by visiting their website!
4. Zumba
Zumba is a Latin-inspired, easy-to-follow dance workout class. The class is not a typical workout and offers a “dance party” feel to burning calories and getting fit. Zumba incorporates moves (Salsa, anyone?) that work your arm and leg muscles, as well as your abs. Originally starting in Colombia and later coming to the United States, we are lucky to have Zumba offered four days a week at our very own KU Recreation Center.
5. Cycling
The KU Recreation Center offers three different cycling classes: Cycle, Cycle Xpress and Power Pedal. Although KU offers multiple cycling classes, the benefits from working out on the bike are still the same. Cycling offers a 50-minute constant cardio workout that burns calories, strengthens leg muscles and improves your cardiovascular health. The best part about cycling is that you are on a standstill bike, so you can go at your own pace. The speed and resistance are controlled by you! The KU Recreation Center offers all three cycle classes four days a week.
Mix up your workout routine with one of these options and don’t worry about being a class rookie. Just remember: the hardest part is trying the class for the first time. It’s all fun and positive results from there!