University Recreation Exercise and Wellness Programs Available During Fall

The start of a new school year can be an exciting time as students, faculty, and staff commit to new classes, friendships, activities, and routines. The inclusion of exercise and wellness practices is imperative in maximizing health, learning and overall happiness for students and faculty/staff alike. The department of University Recreation offers a multitude of opportunities for the University of Arkansas community to integrate exercise and wellness into their campus experiences. Following are descriptions of some of the programs offered to help you be as healthy as possible during the fall 2011 semester.

The following fitness/wellness programs are offered to University of Arkansas students and members of the Health, Physical Education and Recreation program. All programs have a registration and fee process. To inquire or register for any of the following programs, please call 479-575-4646 or visit the HPER membership office in HPER 225.

Group Exercise: Group Exercise offers the opportunity for an instructor-led exercise session in a group setting. Class types include Group Cycle, TurboKick, Yoga, PiYo, Aqua Aerobics, and Hip Hop. Group Exercise is free for University of Arkansas students and faculty/staff who are HPER members. One-time registration is required every semester, and Group Cycle requires purchase of a $3 pass per class.

Fitness Assessments and Personal Training: Personalized exercise instruction, goal-setting and feedback can be highly motivating tools for those wishing to develop exercise plans, stay motivated, or overcome fitness plateaus. One-time Fitness Center orientations are also available.

Fitness U: Learning how to utilize UREC facilities and equipment to develop and implement an exercise plan shouldn’t be difficult or intimidating.  Fitness U offers instruction in basic exercise principles, HPER Fitness Center equipment, and introductions to strength and cardiovascular training. 

Boot Camp: For more experienced exercisers, Boot Camp is a combination of moderate to intense exercise geared toward weight loss, toning, and strengthening, with workouts taking place at various indoor and outdoor locations across campus. 

Massage: Massage can be utilized to release tension, improve muscle recovery, and increase energy. UREC has appointments available with an in-house Master Massage Therapist.

There are also several opportunities for exercise and wellness education for the larger campus community. The following programs will be held in the Arkansas Union in order to provide further accessibility and outreach. These programs are free and open to all students, faculty, and staff. No registration is required.

Back to School Fitness Assessments: Being aware of your current fitness indicators is an important step in maintaining an exercise program. UREC can help educate you about your current fitness level by providing baseline testing in major fitness components. Come back for post-testing to assess your progress and receive feedback. (Pre-assessments: Sept. 27 and 29; post-assessments: Nov. 16 and 17; 12:15 to 1 p.m., ARKU508)

Group Exercise on Campus: Exercise doesn’t have to be restricted to the gym. UREC will feature group exercise classes similar to those found in the HPER Building, but with accommodations for those who may be unfamiliar with this style of exercise. Athletic shoes required. (Oct. 4 and 13 in ARKU512; Oct. 27 and Nov. 10 and 15 in ARKU508. All times 12:15 to 1 p.m.)

Wellness Workshops: Learn about maximizing your wellness with the following topics presented by University Recreation. All times 12:15 to 1 p.m.

• Oct. 6:  Developing Healthy Eating Habits (ARKU508)
• Nov. 8:  Designing Individualized Workouts (ARKU508)

For questions regarding these and any other Fitness/Wellness program provided through University Recreation, please contact Katie Helms at khelms@uark.edu or 575-4684. Have an active and healthy fall!