I’ll never get over the fact that UConn provides free fitness classes to students. I know we have a multimillion-dollar gym, but to me, these free classes are the cherry on top. Do you know how much you’d have to pay to get access to classes like this at a normal gym?! A lot. In the spirit of frugality and fitness, I’ve tried to take full advantage of the Rec’s offerings and try as many classes as I can. Below, I’ve ranked my five favorites.
#5 Total Body Strength
Coming in at #5, we’ve got a class that will make every muscle burn and leaves you exhausted. I’ve only done total body strength once or twice, but trust me, it holds true to its name: it’s a total body workout. From what I recall, the class is split into three sections: upper body, lower body, and core. Each time we transitioned from one muscle group to another, I felt momentarily relieved before realizing that each part of the class is equally grueling, just in different ways.
A nice thing about this class is it’s very customizable. You choose the weights you’ll use, and if they get to be too heavy, you can just drop them. The instructors are motivating and super willing to help you with your form if you ever need it. This kind of class isn’t the most exciting in my opinion, as it’s just a circuit with a variety of exercises, but it definitely gets your heart pumping.
#4 all levels yoga
I recommend this relaxing class to anyone who’s looking to destress their mind or relieve sore muscles (maybe try it the day after total body strength). You’ll spend the first 40-45 minutes making your way through sun salutations with a few other poses and balances worked in, speeding up a bit as the class goes on. The last 15-20 minutes are the reward: laying on your mat in the dark. Not gonna lie, I fell asleep during this part (and had a dream about Dance Moms, but that’s another story). You won’t leave the class feeling exhausted, which could be nice or not depending on what you’re going for. This isn’t a class I’d personally do every day because of its relaxed vibe, but I’ll definitely be going back on occasion.
#3 dance fit
This class is so much fun! It’s basically Just Dance IRL: The instructor stands at the front and dances her heart out to a bunch of fun songs, and you just follow along. The music is upbeat, and the vibes are good. What’s not to love?
One thing I’ll say about this class is if you’re like me—that is, uncoordinated and awkward—you’ll definitely need to leave your pride at the door. You probably won’t look particularly cool while dancing, but just go with it and have fun! No one’s there for a dance competition; everyone just wants to get a little cardio in without the dreadful treadmill. This is another workout that’s on the lighter side, but you’ll definitely feel like you exercised.
#2 power yoga
If you thought yoga could only be chill and relaxing, think again: power yoga is the complete opposite of that. I signed up for it naively, expecting a normal yoga class with a few harder poses thrown in. Nope. The “power” to “yoga” ratio was way higher than I expected. Once I got over that initial shock, I loved the class! I was sweating ten minutes into it, and by the halfway point I could barely hold myself up in downward dog. Definitely take this class if you’re looking for a full-body workout that incorporates lots of stretching and just a sprinkle of zen.
#1 spin
Lastly, my very favorite class at the Rec Center: spin. I was skeptical before I tried it. Riding a bike in place can’t be all that fun, right? Wrong. What I failed to realize was that the loud music, motivating instructors, and impressive variety of challenges make a one-hour spin sesh the best thing ever. While the group atmosphere may make you believe you’re part of a super cool biker gang, your workout is completely individualized, as your speed and resistance are up to you. You’ll definitely be dripping sweat on the bike, but the class is engaging enough that you won’t want to quit early. These classes always fill up super fast, and for good reason: they’re the best.
And there you have it, my top five fitness classes at the Rec. Try them out for yourself and see what you think. If you don’t like one, don’t sweat it—that’s why UConn offers so many!