Students feeling stressed by the pressures of final exams can find some relief thanks to U-MOVE. As part of U-MOVE's Finals Fitness Frenzy, students can attend any of its classes for $1.
U-MOVE is a program in the University's division of kinesiology. It sponsors not-for-credit classes in step aerobics, hip-hop aerobics, tai-chi, yoga, weight lifting, tae kwon do, shiatzu massage and ballroom dancing, among others.
LSA sophomore Chris Rodgers said he may attend one of U-MOVE's weight lifting classes. "Weight lifting could relieve some frustration from studying," Rodgers said.
Nicole Miller, a chemistry graduate student who instructs a step aerobics class, said that U-MOVE classes are good "for people who have a hard time motivating themselves to work out." Miller said that a regularly scheduled exercise program with group participation allows participants to "feed energy off each other."
Miller said more men are joining in the aerobic classes.
"It's starting to cross over in terms of gender," Miller said.
U-MOVE Director Nia Aguirre said the classes have been "very, very popular."
Most classes meet twice a week and cost $45 per semester. All classes are currently held in the Central Campus Recreation Building and are taught by instructors who are either certified or have a degree in kinesiology.
Mike, a Business student who wished to have his last name withheld, said he enjoyed taking the hip-hop aerobics class.
"I had two left feet before, but I got the hang of it and it's been a blast ever since," he said. "It's so fun."
Mike also said he liked the fact that U-MOVE's classes exposed students to new activities they may not have tried before.
Aguirre said the classes are meant to attract community members as well.
"My goal is to reach out to non-students," Aguirre said.
U-MOVE classes cost the same for all participants, regardless of involvement with the University.
In addition to these classes, U-MOVE has personal training available either with a partner or on a one-on-one basis. U-MOVE also offers body composition testing for those who want to determine their amount of body fat.
Aguirre said U-MOVE wants to expand its classes "to other sites in the U of M community." Starting next fall, U-MOVE will begin offering classes in the North Campus Recreation Building.
Those who would like more information on U-MOVE programs and times of classes for the Finals Fitness Frenzy can call U-MOVE at 764-1342.