By Mairead Levitt '25

As the days get colder and the sun sets earlier, it gets difficult for students to motivate themselves to go to the gym. Especially for students who do not go often, the athletic center (AC) can be a daunting place, and it is easy to feel overwhelmed. Luckily, Colby Recreation has fitness classes, which can help alleviate some of the stress that comes with exercise.

Classes are offered for spin, yoga, weight training, kickboxing, tai chi, and more. The instructors lead students, faculty, and staff through a workout during a structured period of time, which takes the pressure off students to navigate themselves through a workout. Classes are free for all, giving everyone on campus the chance to exercise.

Gusty Taylor `26 teaches Spinergy, a twice-a-week spin class that focuses on high-intensity interval training (HIIT). She points out that attending classes both gives students a workout and helps them feel comfortable in the AC.

"My 45-minute spin class provides students with a structured full-body workout, allowing them to let go and put their energy into something other than schoolwork! Students become familiar with spin bikes and the proper riding techniques after attending classes, allowing them to be confident using the spin room in their own time! The fitness classes provided at Colby are a great way to get comfortable at the AC as well as achieve fitness goals!" she said.

Fitness classes' success depends on the atmosphere they create, and Taylor makes sure to create an environment that leaves attendees wanting to come back for more.

"The environment of Spinergy is very upbeat! I select songs that promote energy and enjoyment throughout the ride! As I lead the programming, I always motivate students and cheer them on during higher-impact sections of the ride! One of my favorite things about Spinergy is the 'song for yourself,' where I play a slower song and encourage students to reflect on their workout!" she said.

Holly MacKenzie, a project manager at the College, teaches PiYoLive, a class that combines muscle-sculpting, pilates, yoga, and cardio through circuit training. The class aims to burn fat through low-impact exercises.

MacKenzie also emphasizes the importance of the environment to make the class a better experience for attendees. 

"I do my best to keep the energy high and exciting in class. The music is upbeat, the sunshades are open, smiles are on people's faces and when things get challenging, I remind the group they are doing amazing.  I strive for a positive, uplifting class that keeps people coming back," she said. 

She points out that attending these classes does not just help with physical well-being, but mental health as well.

"Movement is a pillar of health and wellness, not just physically, but mentally as well. Whether it manages your blood sugar levels, releases endorphins, or provides a healthy outlet for stress, easy access, and convenient classes, I believe, allow you to live a fulfilled and happy life," she said. 

Taylor echoes this sentiment, pointing out that the classes are the perfect length to take a break from work and get moving, without throwing off your whole schedule.

"My Spinergy classes enhance the Colby environment by allowing students and employees to take a break from work and sweat it out! I always encourage those in my classes to leave whatever they have going on in their academic and social life outside of class, and enjoy 45 minutes for themselves! It is so important that students have the opportunity to engage in group workouts and try new things!" she said.

Lily Conway `26, attended her first spin class recently.

"I'm an athlete who is out of season, so these classes are really nice to have because they are structured and fun," she said.

Erin Quirk `24, who has attended Colby Recreation yoga classes before but never a spin class, agrees.

"I like how it is a structured time to get a workout in, without being super intense or high-stakes," she said.

At the end of the day, the fitness classes are supposed to be for people to have a good time and a break from the stress of real life.

However, the instructors recognize that attending these classes may be scary for some, including those who are worried about working out in front of other people or who have never participated in a class before.

Because of this, instructors are conscious of how their students are feeling, and many offer modifications to make sure that everyone has a good time. 

"Showing up is the hardest part of the class! Colby Rec has amazing instructors who understand doing something new can be intimidating and challenging. Your instructor only wants to see you succeed and enjoy the class," MacKenzie said.

She continues, pointing out that instructors want their students to have a good time, regardless of what their fitness goals or levels are. 

"You don't have to get in shape to come to class. Every instructor wants their participants to have a fun and successful class.  If you aren't sure how to do something, what to wear, or need some guidance, just ask! We are here to help you customize your class experience to meet you where you are, regardless of fitness level," she said.

For many students, the Colby Recreation fitness classes are the first fitness classes they have ever attended, so instructors are clear and are sure to explain everything thoroughly.

"If students are nervous about attending one of my classes, they should know that Spinergy is a nonjudgemental zone! Everyone who attends the classes is doing it for themselves, and not paying attention to other students in the class. I am happy to help them get set up on the bike before class starts, as I'm always in the studio 15 minutes early! Students should also know that I always do an overview of bike positions and techniques during the warmup section of the ride," Taylor said. 

MacKenzie points out that these classes show Colby's commitment to well-being, as they are free for every member of the Colby community.

"Teaching (and attending) classes at Colby is an honor and a benefit of being an employee here. I take great pride in supporting the Colby community's efforts to be healthy and well. Fitness classes at Colby show we encourage and care about the staff, faculty, and students on campus," she said.

In the College's commitment to the well-being of the community, they require instructors to get certified to teach fitness classes. MacKenzie took a weekend-long certification course to learn formatting and proper execution. However, she emphasizes that it was the time and practice that truly got her comfortable teaching in front of a group.

To prepare to teach a spin class, Taylor took a 6-week course with the International Sports Sciences Association, as well as weekly Peloton classes to learn other instructors' methods. Part of her exam at the end of her class included a first aid AED/CPR course.

Colby Recreation fitness classes are a great way to exercise in a low-stakes environment with friends and other community members. Taylor offers Spinergy every Monday and Wednesday at 5 p.m. and MacKenzie offers PiYoLive every Wednesday at noon. 

To see what other classes are offered, check out Colby Recreation's website for a full schedule.