Staying active in college isn’t always easy, but at California Baptist University, group fitness classes at the recreation center make it fun, social and accessible for everyone. Whether it is Zumba, yoga, spin or strength training, students show up to break a sweat, build friendships, relieve stress and stay motivated.
For sophomore architecture major Giselle Dunkirk, joining group fitness classes was about more than just exercise—it was about forming connections.
“I was motivated to participate in a group fitness class because I hoped to form a community in the gym,” Dunkirk said. The welcoming and uplifting atmosphere made her experience enjoyable and rewarding.
Senior interior design major Marisa Dunkirk had similar feelings, emphasizing the social benefits of group exercise.
“One of my good friends and I first began hanging out when we decided to go to workout classes together,” Dunkirk said. These sessions fostered friendships, accountability and shared motivation.
One of the biggest benefits of group fitness classes at CBU was that they were designed for students of all fitness levels. Marisa Dunkirk highlighted how instructors ensured everyone felt comfortable.
“The instructors were all super friendly and great at explaining different motions or techniques,” she said.
Giselle Dunkirk also praised the structure of the classes. “They had different levels and different rules that allowed many different opportunities,” she said. Whether students were just starting or looking for a challenge, there was a class that fit their needs.
Karolina Iznerowicz, group fitness coordinator, highlighted the importance of variety in programming.
“We offered classes like deep stretch, kickboxing, Pilates, cycle, or dance styles like ballet or hip-hop,” she said. “That way, each student could find something they enjoyed that kept them engaged in physical activity.”
For many students, these classes served as an escape from the demands of college life. Marisa Dunkirk found relief in the sessions. “I thought that the classes with fun lights and music stood out most to me. It was very stress-relieving from school,” she said.
CBU’s fitness instructors recognized this dual purpose.
“Group exercise programs provided students the opportunity to take a break from schoolwork and relax through physical activity. All they needed to do was show up, and we set the atmosphere and provided the programming,” Iznerowicz said.
While students loved the current offerings, they also had ideas for new classes. Giselle Dunkirk suggested a trampoline fitness class, while Marisa Dunkirk expressed interest in a yoga class that blended deep stretching with Pilates.
CBU gave students a place for intense workouts, a way to de-stress and a good time with friends through group fitness classes.
