#campusrec

[thehoudini]

My mural for the entrance at @campusrec got installed today. So happy with how this turned out, probably the largest thing I've made! - #downtownpdx #pdx #graphicdesign #illustration #mural #campusrec (at Portland State Campus Rec)

[tlubulldogs]

Congratulations to Campus Recreation Director Debbie Roberts on her retirement from Texas Lutheran University! Thank you, Debbie, for your 18 years of outstanding service to TLU! #PupsUp #TLUBulldogs #CampusRec (at Texas Lutheran University) https://www.instagram.com/p/CDKZ8PrDhPg/?igshid=vcsbiglaqd1h

[fsucampusrec]

My Personal Favorite Group Fitness Classes

[By: Rebecca W.]

I’m so grateful that I made exercise a priority at a young age. I started with just simple cardio and weightlifting, but as I got older, my schedule became rather more hectic. The past 2 years, I’ve been challenging myself and my body by trying out all different types of workouts. I now appreciate all kinds of different Group Fitness classes and simply can’t go a day without a nice sweat. After testing out every class FSU Campus Rec has to offer, I’ve compiled my top 5 favorite group fitness classes that have greatly helped me achieve multiple personal fitness goals and I hope they can help you too!

1. F45

F45 is a new and very hype Group Fitness class that FSU Campus Rec launched this summer. I say it’s very hype because it is by far one of the most encouraging and innovative workout classes I’ve ever taken… like ever! Every class is different, so if you become addicted like me and go every day, you’ll never see the same workout twice. Monday, Wednesday, and Fridays are solely cardio based, targeting your heart rate to reach a higher beat, while Tuesdays and Thursdays are strength based, working every major muscle group with functional moves. If you’re looking to break a sweat, try F45, I can honestly promise it won’t disappoint!

2. Pilates Body

Pilates Body is my absolute go-to when I need to feel firm and stretched. I chose Pilates because it consists of low-impact movements designed to strengthen flexibility. It also emphasizes core strength and proper postural alignment. My body always feels toned and tighter after one class and my booty and shoulders are always sore a couple hours after... my favorite body parts to work out!

3. Total Body Sculpt

All I can say is that after working out for years, I still need to work on my endurance and stamina. Boy these HIIT classes are challenging! Total Body Sculpt, that is offered at the Leach, has got to be one of my favorite HIIT/total body workouts. Although I’ve only done it a few times, I have seriously become addicted. The use of light to moderate weights during class with really high repetitions makes it extra challenging, in the best way possible!

4. Barre

Barre is hard, sweaty, intense, and completely worth every second. Barre Burn classes tend to focus on pulsing movements, with emphasis on form and total body alignment. It targets sets of muscles with isometric exercises while putting heavy focusing on core engagement. Breaking a sweat isn’t hard in any barre class, since most movements are derived straight from ballet. Try Barre Burn if you’re looking for these heavy focused toning moves and plié on!

5. Yoga

I can’t say I'm a very passionate yoga practitioner, but yoga has been in my life for a while now. Aside from feeling so relaxed when I’m done with a class, I just love the overall benefits of yoga in general. Improved flexibility, blood flow, and posture are all things I seriously feel after one session. Try out a class that Campus Rec offers if you’re feeling tired and sluggish. I guarantee after one session, you’ll feel a lot more refreshed, resilient, and ready to take on any challenge.

6. Spinning

Indoor cycling focuses on endurance, strength, high intensity, and recovery. I enjoy going to a Spin class because I love the way the instructors teach the classes based on their personally set playlists. I go so much harder when I’m jumping to a high beat hip hop song. I always walk out of a spinning session drenched in sweat, which makes me feel so accomplished. Spinning is one workout I’ll keep doing.

FSU Campus Rec provides over 70 group fitness class sessions each week at various facilities, so there is always a class you can take. Learn more about group fitness class registration and classes you’ve never tried on the FSU Rec app now. I encourage all of you to step out of your comfort zone and sign up for a class you’ve been wanting to take! Group Fitness is a great way to feel motivated and powerful throughout your entire workout, which is a reason I personally love taking GFit classes! And remember to tag @FSUCampusRec in your Instagram Stories when you take a new class for a chance to be reposted!

[fsucampusrec]

3 Ways to Get Back on Track Post Break

[By: Vanessa S.]

After spending the past week soaking up the sun, hitting the slopes, or relaxing at home, it’s time to snap back to reality. Getting back in the swing of things for the last 6 weeks of the semester can seem daunting, but get the right nutrients, catch some much needed z’s, and get organized, you’ll be back on track in no time.

Fuel Up 

While spring break is a great opportunity to indulge in unhealthy choices and the lack of water and vegetables will definitely take a toll on your body. Get back to feeling energized and refreshed by drinking eight, 8-ounce glasses of water a day and fueling up your body with strong nutrients during the first few weeks back on campus. The extra hydration combined with the vitamins, will get your energy levels back up and help reboot your immune system and prevent sickness.

Sleep Five REM cycles a night were probably not on the itinerary over break. It’s time to hit snooze on upcoming social events to ensure at least eight hours of beauty sleep a night. Sleep will make certain that your brain is rested and ready to go for the end of the semester. You can also try avoiding caffeine during the first couple of days back. This will help your body rest better and make the transition of being back on the grind a lot easier.

Get Organized  Lastly, get organized to help get back into a routine. Pull out your planner, iPhone calendar, or notebook paper and go over your syllabi one more time to make sure you know what’s going on in your classes until the semester ends. Getting back into your pre-break routine is essential; stay motivated by remaining organized.

These 3 tips will help you transition from an open schedule to getting back on the grind. Welcome back, ‘Noles. We’re almost at the finish line!

[fsucampusrec]

Even Though Spring Break is Over, Your Fitness Goals Don't Have to End

[By: Danielle K.]

In the time leading up to spring break, people tend to make fitness goals and get on a “health kick.” As long as these goals are achieved in a healthy way, this trend brings great momentum and lifts morale. It is so uplifting to see people making the effort to take care of themselves, and focus on their well-being.

When spring break trends, this fitness trend ends abruptly. People work so hard to develop a healthier lifestyle, just to neglect all their progress. Spring break may be the first time that someone felt motivated to get into shape. If this is your case, remember that wellness is not just about looking good at the beach. The effort that you made before spring break, should carry through after. If you are comfortable and confident with yourself, then you will have a more positive outlook. Take the feeling of pride you had going into spring break, and implement it into everyday life.

When you come back to Florida State after break, think about how you want to finish out the semester. If you want to continue to feel strong and accomplished, keep wellness on your mind. If you’re feeling unmotivated and need a push, there are plenty of resources here at FSU to get you going!

After spring break, I know I’m going to feel lethargic and fitness won’t be the first thing on my mind. I need to remind myself of how good I felt when I was working out, and living a healthier lifestyle. If you’re like me, continue to look back on your progress with satisfaction. Use this feeling as motivation to keep going. Anytime I am feeling lazy, I push myself to go to a Group Fitness Class at the Leach. This is my way of surrounding myself with positivity. I look around, and gain inspiration from the instructor and the individuals in the class. I feed off of their energy, and I forget my initial resistance.

A Group Fitness Class is my way of getting back on track. After this spring break, find your reason to continue your wellness journey. Health has no expiration date, so keep setting goals and continue to become better every day!

[fsucampusrec]

10 Ways to Get Your Cardio in that Don’t Involve Running on a Treadmill

[By: Danielle K.]

1) Walk to class. I know that it is tempting to drive to campus, but walking is great exercise and allows you to get fresh air. Walking can be therapeutic, whether you’re listening to music or clearing your head. Plus, if you walk to campus, you have to walk back. Double the cardio!

2) Go on a bike ride. Whether this involves a stationary bike at spin class or riding your bike along a trail in Tallahassee, it is a great form of exercise. This form of cardio is easier on your body, plus I personally think it is so much fun!

3) Take the stairs. If you take the elevator up to your apartment, classroom, or office, taking the stairs is an easy way to add some cardio into your daily routine. 

4) Park farther away from an entrance. It is usually instinct to try and find the closest parking spot available, but it could be beneficial to park further away to get more steps in. 

5) Pick up a sport. If you enjoy playing sports, find an intramural team or gather some friends up for a game! Playing sports is an easy and enjoyable form of cardio!

6) Go Swimming. Swimming is a fun way to cool off and release some energy, but most people forget that it is an even better form of exercise! FSU students are lucky enough to have a huge lap pool at their disposal at the Leach.

7) Dance. Whether it is a Group Fitness dance class at the Leach, or just jumping around with your girls, dancing is such a fun way to get your cardio in. Most people choose to do this for fun, and exercise is just a secondary benefit.

8) Find another machine. If the treadmill isn’t your favorite, there are many other machines that provide a good source of cardio. Try the stair master, elliptical, or bike!

9) Try kickboxing. Kickboxing is cathartic and good for your body. This workout is a great way to blow off steam, while working up a sweat. 

10) Stay active. If you try to live a healthier lifestyle, you should be getting in   more cardio by default. Change your routine up. Get out of bed earlier, watch less TV, and try to incorporate activities that involve more walking. Walk around the mall instead of online shopping. Get up and go out to eat instead of ordering in. These are small lifestyle changes that you can make that incorporate more cardio into your life!

[fsucampusrec]

Find Your “Swolemate”

[By: Danielle K.]

Valentine’s Day is here, and you’re probably going to spend it with your significant other, gal pals, or your bros. Regardless of your relationship status, you’ll spend the most loving holiday with the people who you feel closest to. Personally, on Valentine’s Day, I always feel grateful for the amazing people in my life. The next day, I feel bloated and regret all the chocolate that I ate.

A relationship or friendship is most successful when you bring out the best in the other person. Following Valentine’s Day, while you’re still feeling extra supportive, consider bringing fitness into your relationship. If you spend every day with your best friend or significant other, start to motivate each other to develop a healthier lifestyle.

Mundane activities are so much more pleasant when you have someone to do them with. Going to the gym alone is not for everyone, and having someone there with you can be encouraging. I consider my relationship with my boyfriend to be a healthy one. He is my support system, and best friend. About a year ago, we started going to the gym together on a consistent basis. I didn’t know it at the time, but this became extremely beneficial for my mental and physical health.

My boyfriend, Jakob, is much more knowledgeable about certain aspects of fitness than I am. For example, I have always been hesitant to workout with free weights. I had my set of moves that I was comfortable with, but I didn’t want to look stupid trying something new. Jakob taught me how to isolate certain muscles with free weights, and I became more comfortable using them. If you find a gym partner in your boyfriend, girlfriend, sibling, or best friend, chances are, they can teach you something about fitness that you did not know before. Everyone has their own gym routines that they fall into, but a new perspective can help you spice it up.

I think that you can find a soulmate in anyone. It is the person who is there for you, and motivates you to be better. Why not turn them into your “swolemate”? I know it’s corny, but if you care so much about each other, channel that into caring about each other’s wellbeing. Not only will your “swolemate” serve as your gym buddy, but they will influence you to treat your body better, too.

Following this Valentine’s Day, take a moment to reflect. Who is your “person”, and how can you improve your relationship dynamic? Maybe the answer is embarking on a path to build a healthier lifestyle together. Here at FSU Campus Rec, there are many ways to increase your activity, especially with a partner. Go on a walk around The Rez, use The Leach facilities, or take a Group Fitness class together. If you decide to spice up your fitness routine and find a “swolemate”, appreciate their company, and try something new together!

[fsucampusrec]

Getting Back on Track

[By: Rebecca W.]

When you’re used to a continual routine, the holidays seem to be the hardest of times. Being home, or wherever you find yourself during the holidays, is a nice break from your usual routine. You leave your regular hectic schedule for a more chill-vibe, which sounds great, but in reality it can seem to be detrimental to your wellness goals. Once the new year hits, you seem eager and excited to get back to a set schedule. Even though you might not have fallen off track, or fell off just a bit, we're here to help. Keep these tips in mind once you get back to the grind and you’ll be back on track in no time.

Stay Active

If you’re an avid exerciser or more of a lounger, try to get up and moving. There are so many different ways to get active, such as a brisk 15 minute walk or 45 minute Group Fitness class. Whatever it is that’ll keep you operating and motivated is what you should try to do. If one of your resolutions this new year is to switch up your fitness schedule, we recommend trying our Group Fitness classes. And if one of your resolutions is to get active, we recommend heading to one of our facilities and trying out a workout!

Listen to your Cravings

We’ve all been there. Over the holidays it tends to feel like you’re always eating, emphasis on always. Snacking during parties and loading up on desert feels like an endless battle with maintaining a healthy lifestyle. With that being said, people believe it’ll all flush out if we don’t ingest anything. This is wrong. Your body needs food, water, and love in order to have energy to push through the new year. Don’t deprive yourself of anything. Instead, practice balance by paying attention to your cravings to keep your health in line with your happiness.

Drink Up!

Water is the most important component when it comes to detoxing your body. Don’t forget to stay hydrated, especially if you feel like you’re exercising more than you did over the holiday break. Keep a water bottle within arms reach wherever you go. Pro tip: if you’re trying to drink more water daily as a personal resolution, track daily intakes and try to increase your amount of bottles every week!

Keep the Pressure Low

Don’t beat yourself up about what you did over the holidays because the past is in the past. Move forward now by staying aware of the healthy lifestyle you’ve created for yourself. Don’t put pressure on yourself or make yourself stressed out. If you have a vision or end goal in mind, keep that in the back of your head to motivate you toward your goals, not to make you feel anxious.

Get Rest

Whilst using more energy, you also need proper rest. If napping can make it into your daily schedule, take advantage of that! Studies have proven that a nap somewhere between 10 and 20 minutes long is best because longer naps can cause grogginess and irritability. As for night time, take advantage of getting personal with yourself. We openly suggest journaling, or reading a book, as a way to relax and tire your eyes. Avoid using your technology as a way to get a better night sleep as well.

Even though it is still early in the semester, these tips have already helped improve our wellness journey’s and we know they can help you too. Keep in mind that just because it’s a new year doesn’t mean you have to drastically change who you were a couple weeks ago. Track goals weekly to effectively accomplish what you want to successfully achieve and you’ll feel so great when you draw a checkmark in your goal box.