By Trey Garza, Digital Producer

Texas State University students can now break a sweat without breaking the bank. The Recreation Center has announced that all group fitness classes are now free for students, eliminating the extra fees that were previously required to participate. The Rec’s assistant director for fitness and wellness, Kyle Dean, says that ever since terminating the cost, all classes have seen double the number of participants in group fitness classes.  

“We have been averaging about 18-20 a class,” said Kyle Dean. “Actually, it’s to a point now where we’re running out of equipment for classes just because it’s just completely packed, so we’re having to order some more equipment right now. But it’s been a really good problem. We’re actually looking to double the amount of classes that we offer going into Fall because of it. There’s a huge, huge push right now to bring more to students. So yeah, it’s good.” 

Dean says that since the cost has been lifted, it won’t affect the Rec’s budget since students’ tuition fees will cover the cost. The decision aligns with the Rec’s goal to promote overall student well-being and increasing participation in health-focused activities on campus. Cycle instructor Rachel Oberman says removing a financial barrier encourages more people to get involved in fitness.  

“So the reason why the Rec lifted the cost of your Rec’s classes and your fitness classes is because we want Texas State students to use the Recreation Center and take advantage of the classes that are available to them and all the other thing that we have here like the climbing center, the new weight room that’s coming in with the new equipment, and even our shakes mart – we have a bunch of healthy, nutritious food there as well,” said Rachel Oberman.  

Many students have expressed excitement about the change. Texas State freshman Ava Puente says the rec’s fitness classes have helped her navigate an active lifestyle.   

“I’m not good at knowing what to do on my own, so having people coach me through it has helped me to know what to do even when I want to work out outside the group fitness classes,” said Ava Puente. “So, it gives me a better understanding of how to work out and better myself.” 

For more details, including class schedules and offerings, visit the Texas State Campus Recreation website.