If you've purchased your fitness membership you have the chance to use the various weight and cardiovascular training facilities on campus. You also have access to an assortment of fitness classes, aerobics classes, washboard-abs classes and yoga. These fitness classes officially start on Tuesday, September 6th.

I am a Penn State fitness instructor and I invite you to try a new class or return to an old favorite. But before you head out the door en route to the White Building, there are some details that you, the participant, need to know.

First and foremost, you must have a valid fitness membership or day pass. If you purchase a day pass ($3) you must show not only the day pass, but also a form of photo identification for admission to each class.

Admission to fitness classes is based on a first come, first served basis. This means that no one is guaranteed a spot in any particular class and saving a spot for someone is prohibited.

Proper attire is necessary. Make sure you have sneakers that you feel comfortable moving in, with the exception of yoga or pilates classes where bare feet are acceptable. Ladies, please remember to wear proper support.

Once inside the fitness room, you may place your belongings in the cubbies that are located against the wall or the hallway lockups. You may not take your personal belongings into the gym.

After you placed your possessions in the designated area, please either turn off or silence your cell phone for the duration of the fitness class.

If you arrive late for a fitness class or leave early please do so quietly and respectfully so that you do not disrupt the flow of the class. Remember to warm up and cool down to make every workout complete.

While in the fitness class or on a cardio machine, please refrain from excessive talking. It can be disrespectful to not only the instructor but also to the other patrons around you.

Make sure all of your exercises are appropriate for your body. If you are in a class, you need to follow the instructor with exception of approved modifications. Do not do your "own thing" and try to respect your neighbor's space.

When visiting the group fitness classes, all the necessary equipment will be provided for you with the exception of yoga mats for the Mega-Yoga/Mega-Stretch class. Penn State Fitness has a variety of props including free weights, body bars, mats, steps with risers, tubes, medicine balls, and thera-balls. Depending on what class you are taking will determine what props you will use. Please note that the instructor controls the class. They determine what levels the microphone and music are at, as well as they type of music and props that are used; all within the limits of each specific class.

Penn State Fitness offers a variety of classes including Kickboxing, Funk, Mind-Body Fusion, Butts and Guts and more. There are bound to be classes to suit your interests and fitness goals. Pick up a schedule or go visit www.psu.edu/dept/fitness/schedule.htm to see a complete listing of classes and times. Also note what room the class you are interested in is being held in.

Please keep these fitness class tips in mind throughout the semester to ensure a quality experience with Penn State's Recreational Fitness Program.