Alternative PE classes offered

by Mandi Kane

Daily Lobo

The February issue of Men's Fitness magazine ranked Albuquerque the 12th fittest city in the United States, and UNM's Johnson Center is creating new ways to keep residents fit.

The Center's Recreational Services Fitness Program brought an original idea to life this semester, giving the UNM community more options when it comes to physical fitness.

The "X-treme Fitness" program aims to increase the physical fitness options on campus and introduce participants to other cultures. The program includes beginning belly dancing, Tae Kwon Do and T'ai Chi Chih, a class that focuses on meditation and awareness through movement.

"We have programs for anyone who is interested," said Erin Quinn, fitness coordinator for the Recreational Services Department.

Quinn said the title "X-treme" doesn't necessarily mean intense, but it is different from your everyday workout.

The program also offers a self-massage class, where students learn to relieve stress through physical stimulation and the use of aromatherapy, Quinn said.

"This program really puts you in touch with your body," she said.

The program also offers "The Works" option, which includes about 40 hours of a variety of classes each week ranging from yoga, Pilates, boxing and hip-hop to Persian dance. These classes are offered at a package discount price and are scheduled seven days a week. The package includes classes in the early afternoon and evening. The classes run through May 7.

While common sense should be used when choosing the right classes for personal ability and fitness level, Quinn said instructors are more than happy to modify workouts so that everyone can enjoy the benefits.

"X-treme Fitness" classes include two sessions this semester and each session lasts from six to eight weeks. Each session costs $25 for UNM students, staff and faculty and $35 for everyone else. Classes in "The Works" program are $5 per class, but students, faculty and staff can purchase a pass for unlimited classes for $40. The classes are offered on a non-credit basis at the University.

Quinn said she is hoping the two programs will motivate UNM students to find the time to work out.

"Do you have an hour to watch television, or an hour to talk on the phone?" she said. "Then you can probably take some time to help your overall health."

Johnson Center Manager Roger Wrolstad agreed and said the single biggest excuse for not working out is lack of time.

"Fitness is so important," he said. "It goes back to the total-man concept that physical fitness is just as important as intellectual fitness."

Quinn also stressed the importance fitness has to an overall healthy lifestyle.

"It helps you socially, boosts your self-esteem and immune system and the release of endorphins helps create a positive attitude," she said.

There is still time to register for classes, Quinn said.

"Participation is building, but they are not completely filled," she said.

To register for either program a picture I.D. is needed. Registration is in room 1102 of Johnson Center.

Johnson Center is open from 6 a.m. to 9:45 p.m. Monday through Friday, from 10 a.m. to 4:45 p.m. on Saturdays, and from 12 p.m. to 4:45 p.m. on Sundays. Wrolstad said the hours vary during school breaks and holidays.