University Recreation is offering a new group fitness class called Poolside Strength and Core. All group fitness classes are free for students and UREC members. Poolside Strength and Core is offered every Tuesday from 11-11:30 a.m. in the HPER Natatorium. The class is designed for swimmers of all levels to strengthen the core, and create a workout that will benefit the entire body.

The 30-minute class takes you through a thorough warmup, a flow of movement-based flexibility, and both standing and mat-based body weight strengthening. Novice and experienced swimmers can benefit from the core strengthening and postural improvements obtained from what is traditionally called "dry land training."

Developed by instructor Mavie Hogue, Poolside Strength and Core, is designed to help teach participants how to become stronger, more well-rounded swimmers. Hogue is a certified personal trainer, group fitness instructor, Yoga Fit Level 1, triathlete, and competitive open water swimmer.

"Core strength is so fundamental to everything we do in life. Strengthening that core allows you to get more out of water and land based workouts," said Hogue.

Good swimming requires a strong engagement of the upper and middle back, the traditional core area, and the hips, while maintaining relaxed flexibility of the legs and arms. Training out of the pool translates to better muscle recruitment in the pool. Participants will complete this class ready to move into a water based workout, ready to continue with a land based workout of their choice, or feeling satisfied with a thorough 30-minute total body session.