At the Colorado State Student Recreation Center, students will find more than just a place to work up a sweat.
Our group fitness program, led by dedicated instructors, builds relationships while strengthening your body and mind. Free to attend for all students, these sessions are not only an opportunity for exercise, but also provide a fun environment for socialization and personal development.
“All classes welcome participants from all backgrounds and experience levels,” the Campus Recreation website states. “You don’t have to look a certain way or achieve a certain level of strength, endurance, or flexibility. You can come as you are.”
Will Baker, instructor of power vinyasa and hatha classes, described the yoga studio as a haven within the recreation center.
“It’s its own thing, it’s kind of isolated on the second floor,” Baker said. “The atmosphere and energy of the space fosters a connection to it.”
Known for her Rhythm Ride classes, Katie Barbee’s upbringing and passion for exercise inspired her to become an instructor.
“My mother was a cycling instructor, so I’ve been taking cycling classes since I was 6 years old,” Barbie said. “I wanted to share that passion with others, and I’ve made a lot of connections through athletics, especially here at CSU.”
Many students may feel intimidated or anxious about trying a group class, especially if they’re a beginner or don’t normally exercise. Barbie addressed misconceptions about group exercise classes and emphasized inclusivity.
“I know all the instructors at the rec center, and our main goal is to break down that barrier and make everyone feel like there’s actually no bias there,” Barbie said. said. “All fitness levels are welcome.”
Morning yoga, restorative yoga, and hatha instructor Kalia Kodrić Saavedra also emphasizes inclusivity and mindfulness in her classes.
“The beauty of yoga is that you connect with your body, wherever you are, without judgment,” Kodrich says.
Her classes provide a supportive environment where participants of all levels feel comfortable.
“If people are interested but have concerns, I mostly try to be supportive and listen to what they have to say,” Kodrich said. “The real goal is to connect with your body without any judgment.”
When asked about encouraging beginners to try yoga, Baker emphasized the depth of the practice.
“It’s not just stretching. It’s so much more than that,” Baker said. “Let him try it at least three times before deciding how it really feels.”
Baker said looking back on his journey as a teacher shows that learning never ends.
“Teachers learn something new every time,” Baker said.
These classes are made even more special by students contributing their own experiences. Kodrich emphasized the sense of community each student had as they reflected on their most memorable moments.
“We have a few regulars who come to almost every class,” Kodrich said. “I teach three times a week, so it feels really special. It’s nice to feel supported.”
Barbee said she reflected on the sense of community in her class and was grateful for the bonds she had formed with her students.
“I love the community we’ve created,” Barbee said. “Some of them have been regulars in my classes for over two years, and I’ve built really strong bonds with them.”
Baker said she also values the lasting relationships formed in the classroom. He enjoys having his students return because he knows they value what he can offer and the supportive environment they have built together.
“It’s so gratifying to see people come back knowing that they’re enjoying what I have to offer, enjoying the space to themselves or with the other people they’re with. ,” Baker said.
TThe Rec Center’s group classes offer a path to happiness for anyone seeking it, whether it’s by achieving athletic goals in the cycling studio or finding inner peace on the yoga mat. Every session embodies the spirit and energy of a true community, as participants develop their bodies and build friendships beyond the studio doors.
“I love making friends with the participants,” says Barbie. “I love seeing people excited about exercise and working out. It just makes me feel like I’m making a difference.”
Contact Hania Nini at sports@collegian.com or on Twitter. @RmCollegianSpts.
Interested in more sports content? For the latest CSU sports updates every week, subscribe to Ram Report here.
