The Group classes at LSU are group fitness classes that cover exercise routines such as yoga, pilates, cardio and spin classes that last for about 30 minutes to one hour.
            The group class schedule on the LSU UREC website for fall 2010 includes updates on daily schedules, new classes, online classes, and how to choose your workout.
            There are two new cardio sculpting classes and three new strength classes available on the website. Clicking on a class name on the group schedule opens a new page with full descriptions of the classes. One new cardio class called Triple Threat combines cardio, strength and balance work to keep the body in shape. The class changes routines each week. Another new strength class is Strength and Tone, which is an intense full body workout with resistance bands and dumbbells. This class is one hour long.
            Online classes are offered on the LSU UREC website, free of charge, from Pilates and stretching to hip-hop and kickboxing. Each class description includes how long the workout will last and the intensity level. Classes vary in length from 15 minutes to 45 minutes. New online classes include Advanced Core and Advanced Power Pilates.
            At the bottom of the group workout page on the LSU UREC website, there is a section titled Choose your Workout that includes class intensity and degree of choreography. A class for All Fitness Levels is recommended for those with no prior fitness class experience. The Intermediate level is recommended for those who have had prior experience with a group class or for those who have had an active workout regimen for about three months.
            The choreography degree of classes applies to cardio classes. A class with a low degree has a moderate pace and is recommended for all fitness levels and those without previous experience to a group class. A medium degree class has a faster pace and builds on low degree class choreography at an intermediate level. Those who exercise regularly and have had previous experience to group classes are recommended for this degree (lsu.edu/urec).
            Students that attend LSU UREC classes know what their favorite weekly group sessions are.
            “My favorite is 30-20-10,” Said sophomore Caroline Lynch. “It’s 30 minutes of cardio, 20 minutes of weights and 10 minutes of yoga.”
            Most students preferred cardio classes.
            “My favorite is Cycle Interval,” Said sophomore Erin Yancovich. “You’re on a stationary bike for about an hour, but it goes by pretty fast because they play music.”
            Melissa Longino, associate director of recreational services at LSU, spoke about how the LSU UREC decides what classes are appropriate to fit the needs of the public.
            “We look at what our instructors’ preference or style is and what they can best teach, and what we are lacking in lower or upper body,” Longino said. “Most students really like the abs classes, so we find out how to change up a traditional abs class and find out what really works here for us.”
            Classes are free for students and members of the LSU UREC with a valid LSU ID or UREC membership. Guests may also buy a daily guest pass for $10. Check-in for classes at the second floor desk begins 30 minutes before each class to reserve a space for the class (lsu.edu/urec).
            “Based on studio space and class length, studios can fit 20-40 people,” Said Longino. “Sometimes we may max out a class, and other times we may not.”
            According to the student employment opportunities section of the LSU UREC website, most of the instructors that teach these classes are LSU students. Interested applicants can apply for Spring 2010 employment by November 19 for positions as a UREC assistant, a fitness instructor, personal trainer and sports officials and game managers. Group instructor hopefuls must have current certifications in CPR, a nationally recognized group exercise certification, and complete an audition, interview, and training. The website also has full pdf applications (lsu.edu/urec).
            The LSU UREC also has a facebook fan page at http://www.facebook.com/pages/LSU-University-Recreation-UREC/189518178941 .
 
Video of Melissa Longino talking about LSU UREC classes:
Melissa Longino video from Ariel Glaze on Vimeo.