UREC Group Fitness Classes and Certifications

University Recreation’s spring group fitness classes are currently underway. There are approximately 80 classes scheduled throughout the week with a variety of formats and times. University of Arkansas students, faculty, and staff are eligible to take group fitness classes at no cost. All other UREC membership types must purchase a semester group fitness pass for $40 (includes group fitness for both facilities). Registration is required once per year, and can be done either at the UREC membership office or at the class location.
 
To kick off the spring 2016 group fitness class schedule, UREC will be hosting Back to Fitness Week from Jan. 25-29. Participants will receive free giveaways when they participate in group fitness classes throughout the week.
 
They will also be hosting an ACE Group Fitness Instructor Prep course that will be offered Mondays, Feb. 8 to April 18, from 3-5 p.m. This course is designed to prepare individuals to take the ACE Personal Trainer certification exam. The ACE Group Fitness Instructor Prep course enables fitness professionals and enthusiasts to become a certified instructor so they can lead group fitness classes in gyms and other fitness facilities. Those interested in taking this course can register here.
 
All instructors interested in teaching for University Recreation are required to hold a nationally accredited certification. All potential instructors must go through an interview process. The interview consists of an audition, in which the potential instructor teaches a 15-20 minute version of the class format they would like to teach. Upon hire, instructors are be able to team, teach or begin teaching classes dependent upon their previous instructing experience and audition.
 
“Approximately 70 percent of our group fitness classes at UREC are taught by University of Arkansas students,” said Casey Fant, assistant director of fitness/wellness.  
 
“Offering a variety of certifications each year allows students to explore other opportunities outside of their major. They are also able to maintain their certifications and take these skills with them after they leave the university,” said Fant.
 
See the full spring 2016 group fitness schedule or download the free UREC app by searching uarkrec on any iPhone or Android device.
 
For additional information, contact Casey Fant at cfant@uark.edu or 575-3542.