The Sonoma State In-motion cycling class is back at the Recreation Center.  The class offers a way for students to work on their health and fitness in a positive and fun atmosphere. SSU Recreation Center is now resuming their group fitness cycling classes that were originally offered at SSU before COVID-19.  Cycling is one of four group activities that students are able to participate in for free. Other classes include: Buti yoga, rock climbing and jazzercise. The group cycling classes are held in the dance studio every Tuesday and Thursday from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. 

The class is filled with music and a chance to meet fellow Seawolves. All SSU students are welcome regardless of their cycling experience. Emily Uhrich, the fitness instructor, makes the class easy for all skill levels. At the group cycling class, she teaches everyone how to set up the cycling equipment for the workout. Throughout the class, Instructor Uhrich gives tips on how to replicate the cycling technique she uses . Emily Uhrich describes the class as,“a 30 to 45-minute class structure where we do cycling sprints and jumps. [the class] combines a wide range of cardio motions without it just being in-motion cycling.” Cycling is a proven method to burn calories and improve one’s overall stamina. 

Fitness Instructor Emily Uhrich saw the opportunity to “spiff up” the original cycling program from pre-covid. She told the STAR that this semester, the Rec Center is receiving plus size cycling bikes for the dance studio. One of Uhrich’s goals is to help others get into fitness. In her class, she maintains a positive, upbeat attitude while encouraging others to keep pushing themselves. The 45-minute workout is based on a music playlist.  Throughout the cycling class she explains how to move to the beat of the music. 

With the new year and the spring semester beginning, Seawolves may find themselves stressed. The cycling class offered at the Rec Center can be used as an outlet to relieve stress. On Jan. 24 fellow Seawolf Evelyn Vanderville attended the group fitness cycling class. When Vanderville was asked why she showed up to the event, she said  “I want to better myself and my fitness… [the class] is a great way to get my mind off of school” She goes on and says, “As a person who hates cardio, I despise it… the [in-motion cycling] is a great way to get my cardio in without feeling obligated to do it. The class makes cardio a fun activity.”  

Cycling is one of the ways a Seawolf can stay active and achieve a stress free state on campus. The SSU Rec Center is making a comeback with the different classes that are offered. Many students have a fear of working. Uhrich gave some advice for students who are hesitant to show up,“Just go! The worst that can happen is that you sweat too much and that’s not a thing… It’s like a trophy if anything. Try to forget whatever fears you have in entering the gym and just go and you will love yourself more for it.” The Recreation Center provides a positive atmosphere for students. View which group exercises are available at campusrec.sonoma.edu.