During the 1985 spring semester aerobics attendance averaged 200 participants an evening (excluding morning and afternoon participants).
According to Michelle Rolston, assistant director/interim of the Student Recreation Center, drop-in programs, classes, information sessions, special events, and three different free drop-in programs were available to promote good health and fitness. The drop-in programs, Fit-For-All Aerobics, Weight Room Awareness, and Water Aerobics, were free of charge.
Fit-For-All Aerobics was divided into three levels of difficulty. The green/top level was a 25 minute session called “Go For It,” the yellow/intermediate level was a 15-20 minute session called “Exercise with Caution,” and the red level was an 8-10 minute program for beginners called “Easy Does It.” Rolston explained that the green workout was the most popular, but participants were advised to start at the most comfortable level and work their way up.
To ensure proper placement in one of the three different levels, participants were asked to take a fitness test in the L.I.F.E. Room. However, the testing was not required for program participation. Fitness testing was also available to participants three times throughout the semester to gauge their improvement. The testing included a cardiovascular step test, sit-ups, push-ups, a flexibility test, and a body fat test.
While the majority of participants in aerobics classes were women, Rolston noted that the number of male participants had increased as the weeks progressed. To help men feel more comfortable participating, a Fitness for Men activity was also offered, which focused on calisthenics and activities such as running and basketball.
In order to accommodate the busier schedules of faculty and staff, a noon workout and a 30-Minute Workout were added to the program as well. Rolston commented, “We’re striving to get the faculty and staff into it,” and added that the noon workout is sometimes the only time available for teachers to exercise.
Water Aerobics classes were also held in the Club Pool two days a week and were taught by Rolston. The water aerobics classes followed the same format as regular aerobics, but according to Rolston they did not move as fast and excluded some of the “dancey” movements that were made more difficult in the water.
Learn more about Recreation and Wellness history.
Read more about the current Falcon Fitness Program.
