Summer is finally here, the time of rest and relaxation. For most students, this means two months away from class and the gym.
Although students want to keep the weight off, some find it hard to stay motivated during the break.
Jared Russell, assistant professor of kinesiology at Auburn, understands this more than most people.
"Over the break, everyone's friends leave them," Russell said. "Students tend not to work out as much without motivation."
Students came to Russell wanting a course that would keep their body from morphing over the summer and help them to keep a healthy diet.
Two years ago, he started the course PHED 1200, also known as "Boot Camp" class.
The class is offered Monday through Friday at 7-8:30 A.M. and 8-9:30 A.M. during the summer for one month. It is only offered early in the morning so that students can start off the day fresh and energized.
"Students wanted an intense summer class that would maintain their metabolism and a healthy weight," Russell said. "My class consists of group activities, cardio workouts, push-ups, sit-ups and weight training."
Students said they wanted to take the class for different reasons.
For Jessica Allen, an undeclared sophomore in sciences and mathematics, it was getting her high school figure back.
"I played sports all four years in high school and came here and did nothing for two years, so you can only imagine what happened," Allen said. "It has been worth it because although the class is hard, it has increased my stamina and I'm stronger than I've been in a long time."
For Courtney Willis, a senior in exercise science, it was a need for credit hours.
"I needed PE credits and I saw the boot camp class and heard a lot about it," Willis said. "I really wanted to take a class to get me into shape. It is definitely worth it and I can already see results."
Willis said she hopes to continue doing the exercises when the class ends, since most of them can be done at home.
Russell said a normal day consists of mostly everything from jump squats to running the ramps at the coliseum. Cardio and weight training occur most everyday as well.
Russell gave fitness tips to students not enrolled in the course:
"Ask yourself what your goals are," Russell said. "You have to develop goals, find a realistic plan (and stick to it) and get support."
Russell said the pounds will not come off easily, but with persistency the difference will begin to show. It is all about staying motivated and not breaking focus.
Kelley Andrews, an undeclared sophomore in liberal arts, said that "boot camp" has been a great experience.
"Waking up for boot camp daily at 6 A.M. to get to class by 7 A.M. can be a bit difficult at times, but it is surely worth it," Andrews said.
Andrews described the workouts.
"Not only do we sprint on the outdoor track, run the coliseum steps and take distance jogs outside, but as a class we also complete a calisthenics workout program that develops our muscle strength-endurance overall," Andrews said.
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