I have noticed a lot more student workout sessions getting started on the UW-Platteville campus. While walking around in the Pioneer Student Center the other day, I came across a poster advertising workout class schedules that had the different sessions, times, and amounts on it for students, university staff and the general public.

The classes are not only meant for UW-P athletes or people who are really in shape. They are meant for the average student like you or me who is thinking about getting in shape but feels out of place at the Pioneer Activity Center where athletes work out every day for hours. They are beginner classes that offer something for everyone.

Photograph by Krystle Kurdi
Business construction management junior Adam Kophamer works out on the leg extension machine at the Pioneer Activity Center.

Many classes are offered, like yoga to increase flexibility and to tone without bulking up, water aerobics that don’t put strain on joints but gives a complete workout, cardio to get that heart pumping away and several others. One class that caught my attention was belly dancing. How fun is that?

Students who are not sure what classes they want to attend can buy a punch card for $20 and attend up to four single classes. If a certain class tickles your fancy, the $20 you paid gets put toward the $35 student fee for the class of your choice.

What I don’t get is why everyone is not taking advantage of these! The people who teach these classes are there to help you feel and look healthier. The use of the weight room, track, pool and courts are included in tuition. One of these classes offered at another fitness location would be $100 a month or more for a membership. Sure, there is 24/7 Fitness that offers special student rates, but these rates continue through the weekends and academic breaks when most people are not here to use the facility. And to activate a membership it is $45 dollars plus the $15 a month.

If you’re already paying for use of the facilities at UW-P why not use it and feel healthier? Go on the off times when the PAC is not crowded, attend the classes that will show you what to do to get fit, get out that iPod and jam, eat that apple that comes with lunch and look and feel better about yourself. It’s a win-win situation.