The benefits of personal training go far beyond physical fitness. No longer is personal training limited to a monotonous cardiovascular and weight training program in a gym, but rather is an interactive and invaluable resource that provides assistance in developing the tools needed for a healthy lifestyle. 

University Recreation currently hosts 14 personal trainers that assist 32 clients in their personal training program.

“When we are hiring personal trainers, we look for someone with a solid understanding of exercise science and an art for developing an exercise plan for their client,” said Jade Dworkin, university recreation graduate assistant for fitness and wellness.

Sue E. Shultz, nurse practitioner at the Pat Walker Health Center, is a current client of UREC personal trainer, Matt Sperle. The pair began working together in 2012.

“I began personal training with Matt with no pre-existing ideas of what to expect. I desired encouragement, and someone to push me at the appropriate moment,” said Shultz.

“Matt is honest, and a hard working student. He helps me maintain an exercise schedule, and sticking to that schedule has had a positive impact on my overall wellness.”

After over a year working with a personal trainer Shultz is physically stronger and able to endure more physically demanding activities.

“I am physically stronger, both in my upper and lower extremities, and core strength,” said Shultz. “My husband and I enjoy outdoor activities. I find I am able to hike longer distances and am able to pedal my bike up long hills without having to stop to rest.  I am also able to use the heavy gas-powered weed whacker on our lawn.”

UREC personal training helps to improve a person’s ability to perform acts of daily living, as well as overall physical and mental health.

“I would say I am more content with myself, as I am working to improve my overall physical health,” said Shultz.

Options for personal training packages include one-hour sessions of private yoga, pilates, stretching, and/or traditional personal training. Personal training sessions for UREC members are available to purchase online at urec.uark.edu>member services or in person at the UREC Main Office, HPER 225.

For more information contact Casey Fant at cfant@uark.edu.