As students at the University of Georgia, we have access to a pretty sweet gym. For just a little extra moolah, group fitness classes are thrown in. (Trust me, it’s well worth it.) Make sure to add these six classes to your pre-graduation bucket list.
1. Bodypump
Created by fitness company Les Mills, Bodypump is a workout program that uses barbells to tone the entire body. It’s a 60-minute low weight, high repetition class which means it’s more important to get every rep in than to pile on the weighted plates. Whether you’re familiar with or terrified of weight lifting, this class will challenge your body.
Because it’s one of the more popular classes at Ramsey, it’s offered at four different regular times: M/F at 12:15 p.m., M/W/F at 5:30 p.m., T/Th at 7 a.m., and Sundays at 5 p.m. Pick your poison.
2. Cycle
Ever wanted to hop on the bandwagon and cycle your troubles away in a trendy workout outfit? Now you can without even leaving campus. The cardio aspect will get rid of all the sweat and stress in your body. Since you control the resistance on your bike, you can push yourself as much (or as little) as you’d like.
If you want an extra challenge, try Cycle Core on T/Th at 5:30 p.m. After you spin for a bit, you’ll head to the mat to work your abs.
3. Yoga
Calling all yogis and wanna-be yogis. If you need an extra dose of relaxation, this is your best bet. Your muscles will thank you for the elongation and your mind will be grateful for the breathing techniques.
One of the perks of yoga is it’s compatibility with other types of workouts. Get your squat rack fix and then stretch it all out with one of these classes.
Not only does Ramsey offer regular yoga classes, but they also have Vinyasa, Power, TRX and Mindful yoga. Try ALL the yoga.
4. Barre Burn
Channel your inner ballerina (or be clumsy like yours truly) for this one. Because it focuses on small muscle groups and high repetition, the movements work to tone every inch.
While the class does incorporate some dance elements (a barre and a few pliés), there’s no need for dance experience or even coordination. Two left feet or not, you’ll get a great workout in.
5. Total Body Tone
This is the epitome of a group fitness class: it targets all muscles with a bit of resistance thrown in for good measure. You’ll start off with a nice and easy warmup before kicking it up a notch and getting your sweat glands going. Because you choose your own weights, you always have the option of pushing yourself to the limit.
And don’t worry if you can’t make it to the gym until the evening – this one’s offered at 8:15 p.m. on Mondays and Wednesdays.
6. WOD Open Circuit
For those who are perpetually late, this drop-in style class is the perfect fit. On Mondays and Wednesdays, a 30-minute circuit is set up from 3:15-5:15 p.m. in the Functional Training Room with an instructor there to help out.
Wear extra deodorant because it’s guaranteed to get your heart rate up and leave you drenched. But it’s all good because you’ll feel great and sleep well after.
If you’re still not sore, try an Instructional Fitness class like boxing or belly dancing. Or, join a small group training program like Women’s Weightlifting or Athletic Conditioning.
Check out the entire schedule and class descriptions on Ramsey’s website and get sweatin’.