Despite Wellesley students’ access to the Keohane Sports Center (KSC), pool, indoor track, spin room, fitness center and numerous student-led fitness classes, finding the motivation to stay active during the winter can be difficult. Amidst holiday festivities, internship applications, jobs and strenuous academic responsibilities, it is easy for one’s health to fall lower on the list of priorities. While the KSC operates seven days a week, listed below are some other fun ways to stay fit while also engaging in the Wellesley community.
All Wellesley students are required to complete a physical education (PE) requirement as a part of the College’s graduation requirements. Students must earn a total of eight credits, which can be gained in a variety of ways. Playing a varsity sport for one year, attending two semesters worth of PE classes or taking part in certain recreational activities are all ways one can complete their PE requirement. Every student, athlete or not, must take part in PE classes, which are a great way to stay active during the cold, wintery months. Mackenzie Jordan ’19 excitedly stated, “I took Cardiovascular Fitness with two friends of mine, and it ended up being so fun! We were all really tentative at first because none of us were that athletic, but it was a great way to spend time with them while also doing something productive and healthy!”
Aside from the opportunity to take PE classes, students also have the ability to join recreational clubs which meet year-round, such as Whiptails, the College’s ultimate Frisbee team, or Wellesley College Dancers (WCD). Karina Lin ’19, a member of the Whiptails, says she “plays pick-up wherever I am and whenever I can” and connects with players outside of the Wellesley community through ultimate Frisbee websites. She explains, “it’s incredibly accessible and fun. While fitness isn’t something I’m obsessed with, I prioritize it as a part of my general well-being, and I definitely feel better when I’m active.” Similarly, Hannah Klim ’20 joined WCD as soon as she arrived at Wellesley. Klim explained that “dance is a great way to keep in shape in the winter! As a member of WCD, I love having the opportunity to take some time away from schoolwork and to be able to workout with my friends.”
Another option for keeping active at Wellesley is attending the numerous student-led fitness classes. These classes are taught by trained Wellesley students and include spinning, strength training, barre, pilates and yoga. There are classes held every day of the week, with the majority in the afternoon and evening to make them more accommodating for students’ schedules. Sami Habel ’20 is one of the many spin instructors. She comments, “I love spin classes because it really helps to have people beside you also working their hardest, and good instructors can be really inspiring and make you push yourself in positive way!”
The opportunities to stay fit are endless thanks to Wellesley’s amazing resources. However, the hardest part is often simply getting out of the dorm and into the KSC. Soccer goalie Olivia Reckley ’20 agreed: “The hardest part is just getting started, but once you’re out there, it’s all downhill!” She continued, “having a workout buddy is also incredibly helpful! Some important characteristics I value in a workout buddy are accountability, mentality and encouragement. If you’re going to go for a crazy run in the snow, it’s nice to have someone to go out there and be crazy with you!”
How are utilizing the fitness opportunities at Wellesley College and staying active this winter?