University students enhance six-packs with UPAC

Moving to the beat of the music, Jen Coriale, a second-year Penn State fitness instructor, surveyed her Step Aerobics class and led the group of students through a vigorous workout. And thanks to a University fee, she has been seeing more students than she has in the past.

Coriale (junior-chemical engineering) said the UPAC (University Park Allocations Committee) Student Activity Fee has allowed for the purchase of more step equipment, increasing the step class capacity from 40 to 90 people.

One healthy alternative that comes from the fee is a spring fitness pass which, due to UPAC funding, has been reduced from $30 to $5, Garrigan said.

"All of the funding is being used to pay instructors and purchase fitness equipment," she said.

Garrigan said the fit-pass entitles students to unlimited aerobic classes held in Rec Hall, the White Building and Intramural Building. If not for UPAC's assistance, the passes wouldn't be as affordable.

"We really owe UPAC a lot of credit for doing this for us," she said.

Garrigan said a wide variety of classes are offered, each catered to different fitness levels and interests. Some of these classes include Step, Hi/Lo and Funk Aerobics as well as Cross-Training, Muscle Toning and Indoor Cycling classes.

Wendy Williams, assistant fitness coordinator, said the increase in passes sold since UPAC's help in reducing the price has been significant. Williams and Garrigan have already sold about 1,500 passes this semester.

"Due to the price and wide range of class times offered, it makes it easy for students to get involved," Williams said.

In order to keep the classes structured for all fitness levels, Coriale said the movements are all kept simple, but vary with intensity.

"Taking advantage of the classes will give students more energy," she said, "and it's a definite stress reliever."

Lorraine Lewis (senior-human development and family studies) used to pay an individual fee for each class she attended until the fit-pass rates were reduced. Now, with unlimited semester use, Lewis said she enjoys the Step Aerobics classes.

"I'm not one to exercise," she said, "but I have a lot of fun."

Walter Krushinski (sophomore-music education) found out about the fitness program through his friends. He was impressed with the low prices.

"When I heard that the passes were only $5, I decided to get one," he said. "It's something different."

One of the most rewarding outcomes of the pass, Garrigan said, is the diverse group it attracts.

"We have a lot more males, international students and a large group who are beginners," she said.

To avoid overcrowded classes, Garrigan said a limited number of passes are left and can be purchased at the IM Building between 8:30 a.m. and 4 p.m.

Whether students prefer biking, dancing or just sweating, the fit-pass is an inexpensive way to take advantage of the student activity fee that comes out of their pockets each semester.