With distant learning extending into Spring 2021, accomplishing things virtually has become our new norm. The CSUSB Recreation & Wellness Center has changed their platform to fit this new virtual setting by going from in-person classes to virtual classes.
Vivian Arias, who is an instructor with the center, says, “The team got together at the beginning of this pandemic last quarter, and got a Group Ex schedule pretty much within weeks online. We have had Zoom classes going since that time. It was really hard to get the word out and people in the class space. I feel people did get the benefit, it was just the issue of getting the word out there for people to join in”.
Arias teaches a 50-minute yoga class and a 30-minute High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT). “It’s about understanding that the resources are still there. It’s just in a different format,” says Arias. She recommends that students try a virtual Group Ex class.
“There will be some trial and error, I definitely get that yoga isn’t for everyone, HIIT is not for everyone. HIIT is one of those formats where it’s super intense from the jump. It is not everyone’s cup of tea,” states Arias.
She reminds students to be understanding and that, although this may not be ideal and this new platform looks different, there are still resources available for students to stay active on campus.
Sean Kinnally, Communications and Special Events Coordinator for the center, states, “We have about 40 group exercise classes currently and we offer one to two live per zoom each day.” The rest are prerecorded classes that students can log on and do on their own time.
The Recreation and Wellness Center is offering self-defense, yoga, core and even cycling. The intramural program has gone virtual as well as with E Sports, such as Madden 2K, NBA 2K, Madden 2020 and FIFA 2020. Kinnally also mentions events happening under the wellness program which include different types of wellness workshops and seminars.
Another platform that has gone virtual is the adventure program where students can participate in community hangouts such as Activate Yourself Walks on IG live, or take a virtual live tour of a national park.
Regarding marketing events, Kinnally says, “We have done multiple trivia nights (2000’s trivia), CSUSB trivia, and speed friending, averaging about two events a week for marketing”.
He mentions how incentives, which include gift card giveaway for Door Dash and Grub Hub, will be implemented to encourage people to attend online classes and events. “We are also doing a monthly giveaway. Any program you attend for Rec events at the end of the month will enter you in the giveaway. We draw two names and send you a gift card if your name gets picked,” says Kinnally.
In addition, he shared some upcoming events such as a pumpkin carving, an in-home scavenger hunt, and a professional development session for students on November 19.
Psychology major student, Raven Strange, talks about the struggles over staying motivated during this pandemic. Strange states, “All I’ve wanted to do is lay down in my bed and watch TV or read a book”.
Strange has tried most of the virtual classes at the Rec center after finding out about it two weeks ago. She says, “I do a virtual self defense class on Fridays and thirty-minute core workout. It’s nice because it’s on your own time.” Strange adds, “If you ever have any free time within your day try a find a virtual program that will allow you to at least relax or energize your body because afterwards you will feel better.”
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