UREC officials announce new semester updates
Karla Hernandez/THE RIDER
As students return to campus, University Recreation is preparing for an increase in usage across its facilities by offering expanded programs, maintaining equipment and reinforcing safety measures, according to university officials.
The preparation comes as January typically brings a spike in gym attendance due to what many describe as a “new year, new you” mindset, said Fay Kennan, fitness and wellness manager for UREC.
Kennan said staff focused on safety and wellness during the winter break by reinforcing cleaning protocols, monitoring facility conditions and completing preventive maintenance on both cardio and strength equipment. She said staff training was also prioritized to ensure they are prepared to receive students back in this semester.
“We always focus on safety and wellness,” Kennan said.
According to the manager, UREC added three new StairMaster machines on the Edinburg campus ahead of the spring semester.
“Also, we … look into our equipment, equipment maintenance and upgrades … replacement of any high use equipment,” she said.
Kennan said UREC will offer 18 group fitness classes per week this semester, including cardio-based options such as Zumba, mind-and-body classes, such as Pilates and yoga, and strength-focused classes such as barbell training, boxing and kickboxing.
She said participation in Pilates, cycling and boxing increased last semester, and staff expect similar interest this spring.
Group fitness classes on the Edinburg campus will run through May 1, while the Brownsville campus will offer two classes per week beginning in February, according to Kennan.
Karla Hernandez/THE RIDER
Annette Livas, associate director of Programs for UREC, said the department is also expanding programming beyond the fitness floor to encourage student engagement and overall wellness.
Livas said new initiatives include weekly “Orange Out Walks” held every Friday morning on both campuses, as well as beginner and intermediate adult swim lessons starting in February on the Edinburg campus.
She said UREC is also adjusting intramural sports divisions to attract more student participation and working with the City of Brownsville to host future sports tournaments.
Livas added staff complete area-specific trainings at the start of each semester and facilities undergo deep cleaning and maintenance. She said these preparations are meant to ensure spaces remain “clean, safe … and enjoyable” for students.
Faith Guzman, an integrated health science sophomore, said she already noticed an increase in activity in the UREC.
“I’ve seen it get busier, especially because of the new year,” Guzman said.
She said she plans to try a Pilates class this semester and there are a lot of accessible opportunities.
Guzman added she has noticed improvements in maintenance this semester, saying sanitation supplies are “always refilled now,” which she said she did not see as often last semester.
Jose Eugenio Lopez, a manufacturing engineering sophomore, said he visits the UREC three to four times a week and considers working out an important part of staying healthy long-term.
Lopez added having access to fitness resources on campus makes it easier for students to prioritize both physical and mental well-being.
To see the full hours of operation, visit the UREC website.
Karla Hernandez/THE RIDER
