5 Workout Classes to Take Advantage of at OSU
As the saying goes, the college lifestyle only allows for two of three things: sleep, studying, and a social life. However, this pyramid leaves out one monumental activity that can make college life more bearable: exercise. Even though working out takes time out of an already busy schedule, it can be a major stress-reliever and increase productivity in other areas of your life.
With so many things going on, I often find it difficult to find the motivation run or lift weights. For times like these, I just head over to the RPAC for a workout class. I love these classes because I don’t have to think about what I’m doing since a plan for the workout session is already in place; a trained instructor just tells me what exercises to do, and I follow suit. It’s mindless and a great energy outlet. Below is a list of my favorite exercise classes here at OSU.
1. Circuit Cycle
This class is the perfect mix of cardio and strength training. It consists of a round of cycling followed by a round of circuit training, so it hits every major muscle group and still allows for a solid cardio workout. The cycling portion varies in intensity with hills and sprints, and the circuit aspect gets your blood pumping, while still enhancing your strength. This is a great routine to do with friends once or twice a week.
2. TRX Suspension Training
If you’re up for a challenge, go to this class. TRX Suspension Training utilizes muscles you didn’t even know you had; it alternates core, arms/legs, and cardio, but takes the workout to the next level through the TRX bands. These bands basically take the resistance exercises to a whole new level, while also incorporating moves to better your balance. You can learn more about the workout here.
3. Simply Strength
Looking to take a break from cardio and focus on a strength workout? Then this is the workout for you. This routine goes through arm, leg, and core workouts and leaves you feeling accomplished at the end of the hour. I like to do this one every other week, when I want to really focus on building muscle and brushing up on traditional lifting.
4. HardCORE
HardCORE is a quick 25-minute core workout to supplement your cardio. It’s quick and to the point, which is great for any exercise class! I’ve only been to this session once, but it consisted of some high-intensity cardio like burpees and high-knees, and a lot of abdominal work that pretty much hits all the bases. Definitely try this one out!
5. Zumba
This is a fun, energizing workout for all fitness levels. Complete with upbeat music and dynamic dance moves, you don’t even feel like you’re at a workout class, but you’re still sweating profusely by the end. I always do it on Fridays, and it gets me pumped for a fun weekend. Definitely bring a group of friends to this one, and you’ll all have a blast!
Whether you want to take your workout to the next level or just learn some new dance moves, there is an RPAC class for you! More information on the group fitness schedule, including descriptions and videos of each class, can be found here.