MRU Cougars Athletics and Recreation is bringing group fitness back to campus this fall with the MOVE MORE Group Fitness program launching this month.
The program focuses on increasing the physical activity levels of participants while providing a safe and supportive setting for all. Classes are offered throughout the day and run in six-week sessions — registration opens Sept. 11 with classes starting on Sept. 25.
Participants who register to ‘MOVE MORE’ will be able to connect with other members of the campus community, and learn a variety of exercises while creating regular movement routines.
“We did some assessments of our student population, employees, and community members. And, of course, they all identified that they really wanted group fitness back at MRU,” said the Fitness and Customer Experience Supervisor Jackie Cooney.
“How important [group fitness] is for people’s mental well-being and physical well-being [inspired the program’s creation].”
Physical activity has been proven to improve mental health, as well.
So while the MOVE MORE program already comes with physical health benefits, participants can expect to get so much more out of it.
“The main reasons [to participate] are all the health benefits. But I feel like building community is important, and also furthering cognitive health, especially for students. To take their focus off their studies and just be with the community, moving and having fun is important as well,” Cooney said. “People can expect going into the classes that all of our instructors are certified and qualified to teach the classes. We also have some students who are leading the classes.”
“It’s just going to be an environment where [participants] can truly be themselves and explore movement at their own pace.”
The classes offered focus on strength, endurance, mobility and stretching. The sessions available include foundation building, spin, yoga, pilates, HIIT and strength training.
Those interested in registering can purchase a MOVE MORE Pass, which gives unlimited access to any of the classes during the six-week sessions. There are 150 passes available that are sold on a first-come, first-served basis.
Drop-in passes are also available within an hour of the class starting — but availability is not guaranteed.
With a goal of “inspiring people to move so that they can be the best version of themselves,” group fitness is a great way for interested members of any skill range to get out and ‘MOVE MORE’ this fall.