Group‑X gives you access to every fitness class we offer. From Gentle Yoga to Total Body Strength, Cycling to Hard Core, you’ll find classes that are as intense, or relaxed, as you are. And you’ll find that our engaging instructors and supportive class environment provide the perfect combination of motivation and fun!
No matter where you are, you can still move with your Group‑X community! As Recreational Sports ventures into a new hybrid space, our Group‑X instructors are coming to you live through virtual classes, and soon-to-be in-person, too! We’re committed to providing you with a safe and fun workout while promoting a holistic approach to well-being.
Check out our full schedule of classes below or subscribe to our YouTube channel to get started. These resources, along with others below, will keep you on track with pursuing your fitness goals!
Pilates improves flexibility, builds strength and develops control and endurance in the entire body. It puts emphasis on alignment, breathing, and developing a strong core often called the “powerhouse” in Pilates. EQUIPMENT NEEDED: Loop resistance band and small blue ball (other options can be a small pillow or mini foam roller).
Come to this fifty-minute class filled with the perfect balance of cardiovascular training and core conditioning. Our cardio drills will get your heart rate up while core exercises strengthen a variety of your muscle sets. Build your endurance and strength with this challenging and fun class.
Vinyasa-style yoga class focuses on building strength and flexibility through a new breath-to-movement flow each week. Flows incorporate dynamic transitions and balancing poses. Great for experienced practitioners while offering modifications to accommodate all skill levels.
Experience strength training like never before! Take this class if you want to strengthen every muscle in one workout. We’ll offer you instruction on how to use free weights effectively and safely. Whether you are an experienced lifter or have never lifted before, this class is right for you!
This class focuses on calming the mind and body through a gentle meditative flow combined with a yin series. Yin postures entail holding deep, restorative stretches at your level, often incorporating props such as blocks and straps. Registration opens 7 days before class and closes 30 minutes prior to the class start.
Ditch the traditional workout and join the party! This Latin-inspired, dance-and-fitness class offers an exciting, exhilarating and effective workout. You’ll develop your stamina and your body tone with easy to follow dance moves, set to the fast and slow rhythms of cumbia, merengue, salsa, reggaeton, hip-hop, pop, mambo, rumba, flamenco, calypso and salsaton. No dance experience required.
An invigorating, low-impact workout that combines motivating music and easy-to-follow instructions. No matter your skill level, you’ll enjoy a fun ride that will make you feel fit and full of energy.
Pilates improves flexibility, builds strength and develops control and endurance in the entire body. It puts emphasis on alignment, breathing, and developing a strong core often called the “powerhouse” in Pilates. EQUIPMENT NEEDED: Loop resistance band and small blue ball (other options can be a small pillow or mini foam roller).
An invigorating, low-impact workout that combines motivating music and easy-to-follow instructions. No matter your skill level, you’ll enjoy a fun ride that will make you feel fit and full of energy.
Come to this fifty-minute class filled with the perfect balance of cardiovascular training and core conditioning. Our cardio drills will get your heart rate up while core exercises strengthen a variety of your muscle sets. Build your endurance and strength with this challenging and fun class.
Join MOVE Wellness® trainer Jane Sheets for a weekly drop in Pilates class that will challenge and energize using the original mat exercises. Especially if you are curious about becoming a Pilates teacher, are a current fitness teacher interested in expanding your knowledge or are studying dance, kinesiology, any movement science or pre-health major.
An invigorating, low-impact workout that combines motivating music and easy-to-follow instructions. No matter your skill level, you’ll enjoy a fun ride that will make you feel fit and full of energy.
Challenge and sculpt your body without risk of injury from overuse by using a sequence of movements within different ranges of motion. No barre necessarily required and minimal equipment is used.
Ditch the traditional workout and join the party! This Latin-inspired, dance-and-fitness class offers an exciting, exhilarating and effective workout. You’ll develop your stamina and your body tone with easy to follow dance moves, set to the fast and slow rhythms of cumbia, merengue, salsa, reggaeton, hip-hop, pop, mambo, rumba, flamenco, calypso and salsaton. No dance experience required.
Each week the teacher will guide students through a new set of yoga poses. Focusing on the essential components of breath and alignment, students will spend more time holding each pose, focusing on building stamina and flexibility. This class is great for beginners as well as experienced students.
Experience strength training like never before! Take this class if you want to strengthen every muscle in one workout. We’ll offer you instruction on how to use free weights effectively and safely. Whether you are an experienced lifter or have never lifted before, this class is right for you!
This class is for those who want to party, and put extra emphasis on toning and sculpting to define those muscles! Lightweight maraca-like Toning Sticks enhance the sense of rhythm and coordination while toning target zones, including arms, core, and lower body.
An invigorating, low-impact workout that combines motivating music and easy-to-follow instructions. No matter your skill level, you’ll enjoy a fun ride that will make you feel fit and full of energy.
Looking for an intense, time-efficient full-body workout? Tabata is the most result-driven form of HIIT (High Intensity Interval Training). In this class you will push yourself to the max and achieve full body fitness by completing a variety drills at specific work-rest ratios.
Do you want an intense workout? How about an environment that offers the support and encouragement you need to reach your peak performance? Then this class is for you! Metabolic Circuit is based on fun strength and cardio drills. You’ll use a variety of equipment like kettlebells, BOSU balance balls, TRX, TRX Rip Trainer and gliding discs all designed to push you to your limits.
Experience strength training like never before! Take this class if you want to strengthen every muscle in one workout. We’ll offer you instruction on how to use free weights effectively and safely. Whether you are an experienced lifter or have never lifted before, this class is right for you!
Ditch the traditional workout and join the party! This Latin-inspired, dance-and-fitness class offers an exciting, exhilarating and effective workout. You’ll develop your stamina and your body tone with easy to follow dance moves, set to the fast and slow rhythms of cumbia, merengue, salsa, reggaeton, hip-hop, pop, mambo, rumba, flamenco, calypso and salsaton. No dance experience required.
Each week the teacher will guide students through a new set of yoga poses. Focusing on the essential components of breath and alignment, students will spend more time holding each pose, focusing on building stamina and flexibility. This class is great for beginners as well as experienced students.
Vinyasa-style yoga class focuses on building strength and flexibility through a new breath-to-movement flow each week. Flows incorporate dynamic transitions and balancing poses. Great for experienced practitioners while offering modifications to accommodate all skill levels.
Do you want an intense workout? How about an environment that offers the support and encouragement you need to reach your peak performance? Then this class is for you! Metabolic Circuit is based on fun strength and cardio drills.
Challenge and sculpt your body without risk of injury from overuse by using a sequence of movements within different ranges of motion. No barre necessarily required and minimal equipment is used.
Come to this fifty-minute class filled with the perfect balance of cardiovascular training and core conditioning. Our cardio drills will get your heart rate up while core exercises strengthen a variety of your muscle sets. Build your endurance and strength with this challenging and fun class.
Vinyasa-style yoga class focuses on building strength and flexibility through a new breath-to-movement flow each week. Flows incorporate dynamic transitions and balancing poses. Great for experienced practitioners while offering modifications to accommodate all skill levels.
An invigorating, low-impact workout that combines motivating music and easy-to-follow instructions. No matter your skill level, you’ll enjoy a fun ride that will make you feel fit and full of energy.
Come to this fifty-minute class filled with the perfect balance of cardiovascular training and core conditioning. Our cardio drills will get your heart rate up while core exercises strengthen a variety of your muscle sets. Build your endurance and strength with this challenging and fun class.
Vinyasa-style yoga class focuses on building strength and flexibility through a new breath-to-movement flow each week. Flows incorporate dynamic transitions and balancing poses. Great for experienced practitioners while offering modifications to accommodate all skill levels.
Each week the teacher will guide students through a new set of yoga poses. Focusing on the essential components of breath and alignment, students will spend more time holding each pose, focusing on building stamina and flexibility. This class is great for beginners as well as experienced students.
An invigorating, low-impact workout that combines motivating music and easy-to-follow instructions. No matter your skill level, you’ll enjoy a fun ride that will make you feel fit and full of energy.
Challenge and sculpt your body without risk of injury from overuse by using a sequence of movements within different ranges of motion. No barre necessarily required and minimal equipment is used.
Experience strength training like never before! Take this class if you want to strengthen every muscle in one workout. We’ll offer you instruction on how to use free weights effectively and safely. Whether you are an experienced lifter or have never lifted before, this class is right for you!
Challenge and sculpt your body without risk of injury from overuse by using a sequence of movements within different ranges of motion. No barre necessarily required and minimal equipment is used.
Vinyasa-style yoga class focuses on building strength and flexibility through a new breath-to-movement flow each week. Flows incorporate dynamic transitions and balancing poses. Great for experienced practitioners while offering modifications to accommodate all skill levels.
Challenge and sculpt your body without risk of injury from overuse by using a sequence of movements within different ranges of motion. No barre necessarily required and minimal equipment is used.
Do you want an intense workout? How about an environment that offers the support and encouragement you need to reach your peak performance? Then this class is for you! Metabolic Circuit is based on fun strength and cardio drills. You’ll use a variety of equipment like kettlebells, BOSU balance balls, TRX, TRX Rip Trainer and gliding discs all designed to push you to your limits.
Each week the teacher will guide students through a new set of yoga poses. Focusing on the essential components of breath and alignment, students will spend more time holding each pose, focusing on building stamina and flexibility. This class is great for beginners as well as experienced students.
Experience strength training like never before! Take this class if you want to strengthen every muscle in one workout. We’ll offer you instruction on how to use free weights effectively and safely. Whether you are an experienced lifter or have never lifted before, this class is right for you!
Do you want an intense workout? How about an environment that offers the support and encouragement you need to reach your peak performance? Then this class is for you! Metabolic Circuit is based on fun strength and cardio drills. You’ll use a variety of equipment like kettlebells, BOSU balance balls, TRX, TRX Rip Trainer and gliding discs all designed to push you to your limits.
Vinyasa-style yoga class focuses on building strength and flexibility through a new breath-to-movement flow each week. Flows incorporate dynamic transitions and balancing poses. Great for experienced practitioners while offering modifications to accommodate all skill levels.
An invigorating, low-impact workout that combines motivating music and easy-to-follow instructions. No matter your skill level, you’ll enjoy a fun ride that will make you feel fit and full of energy.
Pilates improves flexibility, builds strength and develops control and endurance in the entire body. It puts emphasis on alignment, breathing, and developing a strong core often called the “powerhouse” in Pilates. EQUIPMENT NEEDED: Loop resistance band and small blue ball (other options can be a small pillow or mini foam roller).
Pilates improves flexibility, builds strength and develops control and endurance in the entire body. It puts emphasis on alignment, breathing, and developing a strong core often called the “powerhouse” in Pilates. EQUIPMENT NEEDED: Loop resistance band and small blue ball (other options can be a small pillow or mini foam roller).
Experience strength training like never before! Take this class if you want to strengthen every muscle in one workout. We’ll offer you instruction on how to use free weights effectively and safely. Whether you are an experienced lifter or have never lifted before, this class is right for you!
Challenge and sculpt your body without risk of injury from overuse by using a sequence of movements within different ranges of motion. No barre necessarily required and minimal equipment is used.
Come to this fifty-minute class filled with the perfect balance of cardiovascular training and core conditioning. Our cardio drills will get your heart rate up while core exercises strengthen a variety of your muscle sets. Build your endurance and strength with this challenging and fun class.
This class focuses on calming the mind and body through a gentle meditative flow combined with a yin series. Yin postures entail holding deep, restorative stretches at your level, often incorporating props such as blocks and straps. Registration opens 7 days before class and closes 30 minutes prior to the class start.
Each week the teacher will guide students through a new set of yoga poses. Focusing on the essential components of breath and alignment, students will spend more time holding each pose, focusing on building stamina and flexibility. This class is great for beginners as well as experienced students.
Challenge and sculpt your body without risk of injury from overuse by using a sequence of movements within different ranges of motion. No barre necessarily required and minimal equipment is used.
Come to this fifty-minute class filled with the perfect balance of cardiovascular training and core conditioning. Our cardio drills will get your heart rate up while core exercises strengthen a variety of your muscle sets. Build your endurance and strength with this challenging and fun class.
An invigorating, low-impact workout that combines motivating music and easy-to-follow instructions. No matter your skill level, you’ll enjoy a fun ride that will make you feel fit and full of energy.
An invigorating, low-impact workout that combines motivating music and easy-to-follow instructions. No matter your skill level, you’ll enjoy a fun ride that will make you feel fit and full of energy.
Vinyasa-style yoga class focuses on building strength and flexibility through a new breath-to-movement flow each week. Flows incorporate dynamic transitions and balancing poses. Great for experienced practitioners while offering modifications to accommodate all skill levels.
Vinyasa-style yoga class focuses on building strength and flexibility through a new breath-to-movement flow each week. Flows incorporate dynamic transitions and balancing poses. Great for experienced practitioners while offering modifications to accommodate all skill levels.
Experience strength training like never before! Take this class if you want to strengthen every muscle in one workout. We’ll offer you instruction on how to use free weights effectively and safely. Whether you are an experienced lifter or have never lifted before, this class is right for you!
Each week the teacher will guide students through a new set of yoga poses. Focusing on the essential components of breath and alignment, students will spend more time holding each pose, focusing on building stamina and flexibility. This class is great for beginners as well as experienced students.
Vinyasa-style yoga class focuses on building strength and flexibility through a new breath-to-movement flow each week. Flows incorporate dynamic transitions and balancing poses. Great for experienced practitioners while offering modifications to accommodate all skill levels.
Buying your Group‑X Unlimited Pass allows you access to Group‑X classes all semester long. The unlimited pass provides you access to all virtual classes and in-person classes each week. You must be a current Recreational Sports member or currently enrolled UM student to purchase our unlimited pass, however, anyone can buy our Virtual Class Pass option!
Visit the Recreational Sports webstore to purchase your pass. Fall pass sales begin on August 14. All pass sales are final and non-refundable.
Once you’ve purchased a pass, you will receive an email confirmation. You can begin registering online and attending Group‑X classes immediately. Registration secures your spot in a class. If you know you can’t make it to class, be sure to drop your registration so that someone else can attend, especially for our in-person classes. See the information below for how to access all classes.
If you are a non-student or not a Rec Sports member, you will need to sign up for an account through the web store
In order to register for classes after September 7, you will need to purchase the Group‑X Unlimited Virtual Class Pass.
Once you have the Group‑X Unlimited Virtual Class Pass, you may register for any class.
Registration closes 1 minute before the class start time. Once registered you will receive a confirmation email. You can join class via the details in that email, including through the calendar invite. You can also log into your web store Profile, go to Programs and join from there.
Once registered for a class, you can check-in (access the Zoom meeting) 30 minutes prior to the start of class and up to 10 minutes after the start of class.
Check-in and Move!
We want you to have the best experience possible with us, whether online or in our spaces, so please arrive or virtually check-in to class on time. All classes, virtual and in-person, are drop-in. We encourage you to turn on your video so our instructors can see you if you’re at home. Mute your audio to keep down background noise, but feel free to engage when it’s appropriate!
Registration Timeframe
Check-in Timeframe
In-Person Class
Opens 7 days prior to the class. Closes 30 minutes before the start of class.
Available 15 minutes before the start of class and up to 5 minutes after the class start time.
Opens 120 days prior to the class. Closes 1 minute before the start of class.
Available 30 minutes before the start of class and up to 10 minutes after the class start time.
Class Descriptions
We offer four types of classes: Floor (Strength and Cardio), Dance, Mind/Body, Cycling. Class offerings may vary semester to semester. Please see our calendar for the current semester’s schedule.
Challenge and sculpt your body without risk of injury from overuse by using a sequence of movements within different ranges of motion. No barre necessarily required and minimal equipment is used.
Come to this fifty-minute class filled with the perfect balance of cardiovascular training and core conditioning. Our cardio drills will get your heart rate up while core exercises strengthen a variety of your muscle sets. Build your endurance and strength with this challenging and fun class.
Come punch and kick to the beat of great music! In this quick-paced cardio class, your body will stay in motion as you build strength, endurance, and confidence. People of all fitness levels will get results at this fun and challenging class.
An invigorating, low-impact workout that combines motivating music and easy-to-follow instructions. No matter your skill level, you’ll enjoy a fun ride that will make you feel fit and full of energy.
HIGH Fitness is a hardcore, fun fitness class that incorporates aerobic interval training with music you love and intense, easy-to-follow fitness choreography. It combines FUN (pop songs of old and new that everyone knows) with INTENSITY (intervals, plyometrics, and cardio) with CONSISTENCY (each song has specific, simple moves taught the same by all instructors). HIGH Fitness produces full-body toning through its carefully formulated choreography that alternates between intense cardio peaks and toning tracks. Get Addicted to being fit!
Do you want an intense workout? How about an environment that offers the support and encouragement you need to reach your peak performance? Then this class is for you! Metabolic Circuit is based on fun strength and cardio drills. You’ll use a variety of equipment like kettlebells, BOSU balance balls, TRX, TRX Rip Trainer and gliding discs all designed to push you to your limits.
Pilates improves flexibility, builds strength and develops control and endurance in the entire body. It puts emphasis on alignment, breathing, and developing a strong core often called the “powerhouse” in Pilates.
This vinyasa-style yoga class focuses on building strength and flexibility through a new breath-to-movement flow each week. Flows incorporate dynamic transitions and balancing poses. Great for experienced practitioners while offering modifications to accommodate all skill levels.
This class focuses on calming the mind and body through a gentle meditative flow combined with a yin series. Yin postures entail holding deep, restorative stretches at your level, often incorporating props such as blocks and straps.
Each week the teacher will guide students through a new set of yoga poses. Focusing on the essential components of breath and alignment, students will spend more time holding each pose, focusing on building stamina and flexibility. This class is great for beginners as well as experienced students.
Just like STRONG Nation classes using body weight, muscle conditioning, cardio and plyometric training moves but packed into 30 minutes. This efficient and focused class helps you fit fitness into any schedule.
Looking for an intense, time-efficient full-body workout? Tabata is the most result-driven form of HIIT (High Intensity Interval Training). In this class you will push yourself to the max and achieve full body fitness by completing a variety drills at specific work-rest ratios.
Experience strength training like never before! Take this class if you want to strengthen every muscle in one workout. We’ll offer you instruction on how to use free weights effectively and safely. Whether you are an experienced lifter or have never lifted before, this class is right for you!
Ditch the traditional workout and join the party! This Latin-inspired, dance-and-fitness class offers an exciting, exhilarating and effective workout. You’ll develop your stamina and your body tone with easy to follow dance moves, set to the fast and slow rhythms of cumbia, merengue, salsa, reggaeton, hip-hop, pop, mambo, rumba, flamenco, calypso and salsaton. No dance experience required.
This class is for those who want to party, but put extra emphasis on toning and sculpting to define those muscles! Lightweight maraca-like Toning Sticks enhance the sense of rhythm and coordination while toning target zones, including arms, core, and lower body.
Group-X has given me something to look forward to every day and feel good about myself.
Group-X has definitely made exercise and fitness more accessible to me. It makes me feel good and I've loved all the classes I've taken.
This is the only way I feel comfortable exercising! Thank you!
Please note, you will be taken to the Zumba® website to register for the Zumba® Basic 1. This introductory training will give you the tools you need to lead your own Zumba® class. Learn the Zumba® formula, the four basic rhythms and more! Get 75% off the registration by using this code AFFGYMUMRS70.
The first step to becoming an instructor is getting your certification. Check the resources below for more details on how to become certified. Once certified, you’re eligible to teach for Group‑X and other fitness centers.
We understand how busy life at U‑M can be, so let us bring private fitness instruction to you with Group‑X On-the-Go. Our instructors will come to your on-campus location or live stream virtually to provide your group/team with a customized class of your choice. Please complete the following information three weeks in advance of your event so we get you and your group moving. (NOTE: If you prefer to use a Rec Sports facility, you must complete a Facility Rental request first and indicate you also want a Group‑X On-the-Go class. Once an agreement is finalized, we will proceed to find an instructor for your event. Do not complete this form.)
Become an Instructor
We’re always looking for energetic and motivated people to join our team!
Open Houses
Attend an open house to learn more about becoming an instructor.
Pilates Information
Monday, September 11 – 5:00-6:00pm – IMSB Conference Room
Monday, November 13 – 4:30-5:30pm – IMSB Multipurpose Room A
General Floor & Cycle
Thursday, September 7 – 5:00-6:00pm – IMSB Conference Room
Monday, September 11 – 6:00-7:00pm – IMSB Conference Room
Mentorship Program
If you’re a U‑M Student who would like to move from attending a class to leading it, start your journey now. We’ll guide your training, every step of the way with our Mentorship Program. The mentorship program is a paid position with Recreational Sports and is highly recommended for those without a certification or those who have been newly certified.
Upon completion of the mentorship program, we require that you be able to teach on our schedule for at least a full academic year. At the end of the mentorship program, you will be required to receive a national certification and complete a 30 minute audition to officially teach for Group‑X.
The mentoring will combine classroom lectures with a focus on the application of exercise science, practical experience in the form of teaching, shadowing, and constructive feedback to prepare you to teach your first Group‑X class.
Fall 2023 General Cardio & Strength Mentorship Program
Dates: Thursdays, September 28 – November 30 (No class November 23)
Time: 4:30-7:00pm
Location: IMSB
Audition Dates
Saturday, November 18 – 9:00am-1:00pm
Sunday, November 19 – 9:00-11:15am
Fall 2023 Cycle Mentorship Program
Keiser Cycle Certification Course: Saturday, October 7 – 8am-5pm
Workshops: Wednesday, October 11, 25, & November 8 – 4:30-7:00pm
Auditions: Saturday, November 18 – 2-6pm
Location: Palmer Temp Facility
Next Steps to join one of the Fall 2023 Mentorship Program:
Apply for the Exercise Instructor position, and indicate which teaching format you are interested in.
For more information about the mentoring program, attend an optional information session. Informational sessions are held at the IMSB in Conference Room A.
Thursday, September 7 – 5:00-6:00pm
Monday, September 11 – 6:00-7:00pm
Email, recsportsgroupx@umich.edu, with any questions.
For Established Instructors
● Apply here. You can always contact us for more information, recsportsgroupx@umich.edu
Ahab grew up in Oakland, California and moved across the country to study Chemistry and Neuroscience at Harvard University. At the University of Michigan, he is pursuing an MD/PhD and lives in the intersection between his love for research and his passion for patient care. He began teaching group fitness in college and is ecstatic that he can continue leading fun, energetic, and music-filled classes at Michigan. When he is not in the hospital, lab, or classroom, he loves running, reading, and getting boba with friends.
Certifications: ACE Group Fitness Instructor and Schwinn Indoor Cycle
Why do you love Rec Sports? I love the community, energy, and comradery we are able to create in our Group X classes!
Andy is from the west side of the state; her hometown is Grand Haven, Michigan. She was trained there at the Sacred Moon School of Yoga and have been teaching since November of 2021. She loves to hike with her dog, do yoga, and binge-watch shows when not studying. She started yoga teacher training when getting out of a bad relationship, and needed something to keep herself busy and remember to take time to just be with herself and relax. That self-love and desire to be active have kept her teaching and learning more about her yoga practice.
Certifications: 200 Hour training from Sacred Moon School of Yoga
Why do you love Rec Sports? I love rec sports because it is an accessible way for students like me to stay active on campus. Rec sports is a diverse environment that has so many options of classes to choose from to stay active while living in Ann Arbor.
What is your favorite snack? Sweetarts and chocolate covered peanuts
Anika was born and raised in sunny Los Angeles, and loves painting, dancing, music, fashion, and spending time with friends. She has been a devout student and practitioner of yoga since she first fell in love with it at the age of 12. Under the guidance of Christine Burke, she has explored yogic philosophy, spirituality, mindfulness, and physical practice for over 7 years. Yoga has helped her in infinite ways in every realm of her life, and has shaped her into the person she is. She became a teacher at the beginning of 2020 in order to deepen her knowledge and connection, and to share the gift that has beautified her life to an indescribable extent.
Certifications: RYT 200
Why do you love Rec Sports? I think it is really important to have an accessible and inclusive space on campus for people to connect with their bodies and practice self-care in the form of yummy movement!
What is your favorite snack? My homemade popcorn with olive oil and chaat masala!
Anita has been teaching yoga for eight years. She likes to teach yoga because she appreciates having the opportunity to share the practice she loves and witness the transformation that can occur in students over the span of just one class. Anita believes that physical activity is important for U of M students because physical activity is such a wonderful way to re-connect with the body and expand the boundaries of our comfort zone. (Anita’s favorite healthy snack is watermelon when it is in season, or apple slices with sun butter. Give it a try!)
Bhavani likes teaching yoga because growing up, she was never an athlete and was always intimidated by sports and physical activity. She loves to teach to bring out peoples’ inner confidence and to help them feel energized and ready to face anything. Fun fact: Bhavani was influenced by yoga at a young age by her grandfather, who was a Sanskrit professor, and her exposure to the Bhagavad Gita, certain portions of which she memorized for competitions at her temple.
Camille lives in Ann Arbor. She graduated in 2014 and 2015 and now work as a social worker at UM hospital. She started teaching because she loved attending the Zumba classes through Rec Sports when she was a student and would do the dances she could remember alone in my dorm room :)
Certifications: Zumba & Zumba Toning
Why do you love Rec Sports? I love meeting new students every year and seeing the retuning students from year to year!
Cary is from China. She is into K-pop songs so if you like dance with K-pop songs or you want to learn more about K-pop, welcome to Cary’s Zumba class~~
Certifications: Zumba
Why do you love Rec Sports? I feel like there are much less Asian Zumba instructors in this industry so I’m in :)
Charlotte is from San Jose, CA and has spent a lot of time in Spain and Germany. She is excited to teach as a group fitness instructor because she loves encouraging and motivating people to exercise! Additionally, she loves dancing, boxing, and meeting people from different countries.
Certifications: ACE Group Fitness Instructor
Why do you love Rec Sports? I love rec sports because of the variety of classes and activities offered and the inclusive nature of the program.
Clay is a PhD student in Ethnomusicology and is originally from Connecticut, however they often call Philadelphia and New York home. Outside of the academic and fitness classrooms, they are a competitive weightlifter, musician and baker. Clay started teaching GroupX so they could get more people excited about the empowering world of weight training.
Certifications: ISSA Personal Trainer
What do you love about Rec Sports? It is so accessible and student focused.
Courtney has been practicing yoga for 10 years while working as a pediatric ICU nurse. Now, as a graduate student, she sees the similarities between being a nurse and a student: long hours, living on caffeine, and the occasional all-nighter! Yoga is a practice to reconnect the mind and body with healthy habits, and to balance the stress of everyday life. Courtney believes there is a style of yoga for everyone, don’t be afraid to try something new. There is nothing more empowering than surprising yourself over what you’re capable of achieving!
Certifications: 200 Hour RYT
Why do you love Rec Sports? I love the diverse community of people who are brought together by rec sports!
Cristina is an undergraduate student from Saline, Michigan studying Vocal Performance and Psychology! She has always loved doing yoga, and is grateful for the privilege to share that passion with others. The physical movement, combined with breath and meditative practices, benefits her as a musician, runner, student, and being.
Certifications: RYT 200
Why do you love Rec Sports? I love Rec Sports because I am able to share my love for yoga directly with the University of Michigan Community! I am also able to attend classes and use Rec Sports to connect with other students who have similar interests.
What is your favorite snack? My favorite snack is definitely a bowl of fruit!
Dale is originally from CT, but recently moved to Ann Arbor from Chicago, where she completed her mat pilates training. She loves being active and exploring local coffee shops, and is always looking for recommendations of new places to try. Outside of group-X, she works full time in product analytics.
Certifications: Mat Pilates
Why do you love Rec Sports? I love Rec Sports because it gives you an opportunity to strengthen your body and your mind, while also getting to know a really great community.
What is your favorite snack? Carrots, pita chips, and hummus
Elisa is from Troy, MI. She loves spending time cooking, hanging out with friends, or working out. She taught swim lessons throughout high school which why she became interested in teaching barre classes!
Certifications: Barre Above
Why do you love Rec Sports? The gym is a great way for me to unwind and decompress so I think fitness classes are an amazing way to stay active while having tons of fun.
What is your favorite snack? Strawberries with Nutella
Jackson is a biomedical engineering student from Richmond, Kentucky! He fell in love with fitness through the guidance of a few fitness mentors in high school, and decided he wanted to become an instructor to help others become comfortable in the gym as well. Outside of class, he loves spending time running, rock climbing, reading, and watching sports w/ friends.
Certifications: ACE Personal Trainer
Why do you love Rec Sports? Rec Sports has many opportunities for those at all different stages in their fitness journey, which makes taking classes so much fun.
Jorja is an undergraduate student from Dimondale, Michigan, hoping to go into medicine. She started teaching because she wants to empower other people to feel good about themselves and see what their body is capable of! She enjoys taking care of her plants, spending time outside, and reading.
Certifications: ACE Group Fitness Instructor
Why do you love Rec Sports? It’s an incredibly supportive community where everyone is encouraged to be their best, healthiest selves, whatever that means to them.
Kerrigan is currently a law student here at UM and she was also here for undergrad. She chose to get her yoga teaching certification as a way of deepening her own personal practice, but quickly fell in love with leading classes and encouraging her students.
Certifications: 200 Hour RYT
Why do you love Rec Sports? I love how accessible it is and how inspiring the whole community is!
Kitty grew up in a small town in the upper peninsula. When she was younger, she did a lot of endurance sports but could not continue this due to a severe back injury. Fortunately, she discovered yoga, which helped her to heal both physically and mentally. She loves connecting with nature, and often this means taking her practice off the mat and into the woods, garden or park. She is currently getting her masters of public health, and hopes to continue growing as a yoga teacher to help others prioritize wellness for body mind and spirit.
Certifications: 200 Hour RYT
Why do you love Rec Sports? I love rec sports because we really are a team. Instructors as well as class participants support and uplift each other instead of competing. I learn every day from the students that attend my classes and I hope that they learn from me as well. Rec sports is inclusive by providing a movement practice for all bodies, no matter what your wellness or fitness goals might be!
Lori grew up in a small town in the Thumb called Unionville. She loves being outside in the summer and playing tennis. She started teaching because she loves the energy you get when taking classes with others, and likes motivating people to work hard toward feeling healthy.
Certifications: AFAA Group Fitness Instructor, Spinning, Yogafit
Why do you love Rec Sports? I love Rec Sports because of the variety of classes they offer and the support they give you toward improving your skills.
What is your favorite snack? Bananas and trail mix
Maddy grew up in Western New York and went to Purdue University for Visual Communications Design. Currently, she works for the University as a Web Developer & Designer. She first took a GroupX class in 2014 at Purdue and I met some of her closest friends in those classes! She began teaching GroupX a year later because she wanted to be apart of the community. She loves to help others achieve their fitness goals in a fun and welcoming environment. She is an avid distance runner, mountain biker, coffee enthusiast and knitter!
Certifications: ACE Group Fitness Instructor, BOSU, Mat Pilates
Why do you love Rec Sports? I love rec sports because of the amazing community! It is a welcoming and fun environment. Rec sports has a lot of offerings that can be great to try new things and make new connections. You will always find someone with similar interests!
Morgan is originally from Milwaukee, Wisconsin and but she is legacy here at Umich so she has considered Ann Arbor home for most of her life as well. She is studying psychology with a minor in law, justice & social change and some of her interests include music, fashion, traveling, fitness & food. She also loves naps and hanging out with my friends. She started teaching cycle class because it brought fitness and music together and keeps her in shape as a busy college student.
Certifications: Keiser Cycling
Why do you love Rec Sports? Mostly just how inclusive it is! All shapes, colors & backgrounds are welcome here and I’m so glad I’m a part of the team!
Nali is from Puerto Rico. Her Passion is DANCE. She has 20 years of experience in Professional Dancing. (Strongest Latin) Always needs music in her life.
She loves teaching. Loves the energy and motivation.
She is a proud mom and works in the medical field at the University. Happy Busy Bee!!!
Certifications: Barre Above, Dance & Latin Ballroom, Zumba
Why do you love Rec Sports? Love the diversity on different cultures, the ambience and energy.
Oceane grew up in Germany, Thailand and the San Francisco Bay Area. At U of M, she is pursing a dual degree in applied exercise science (AES) and biopsychology, cognition and neuroscience (BCN). In her free time, she loves to cook, travel, be outdoors, and workout, particularly swimming, running, and cycling. Her love for exercise and cycling is what started her journey as a cycling instructor, and her hope is to make it a fun workout experience for all!
Certifications: AFAA
Why do you love Rec Sports? Rec Sports is great because there is something for everyone: a variety of classes, wellness programs, personal training, or just an open space and many machines to workout however you like!
What is your favorite snack? Dates with peanut butter and chocolate chips :)
Parker is an undergraduate student from Chicago, IL, studying Communications and Business! She started teaching after developing a love for the support and community of a group fitness environment. Outside of GroupX, Parker loves to read, bake and create content on social media!
Certifications: ACE Group Fitness Instructor
Why do you love Rec Sports? I enjoy helping others find their passion for self-care and fitness!
Sophie is from Aurora, CO and recently moved to Michigan for her husband to finish up schooling at U of M! She loves fitness and graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Exercise Science. She work full time at a Neuro PT Clinic and loves teaching Group Fitness in her free time. Group Fitness is such a fun way to meet new people and to show appreciation for our bodies through exercise. She enjoys movies, college football, and anything outdoors!
Certifications: HIGH Fitness
Why do you love Rec Sports? I love Rec Sports because I think it is a great way to meet new people. There is such a wide variety of people that you may not normally have the opportunity to interact with and I feel like there is something for everyone at Rec Sports. There is a great community and it is a wonderful place to progress as well.
What is your favorite snack? Movie Theater Popcorn
Taryn is originally from a small town in Michigan, but currently lives in Virginia. She graduated from the University of Michigan with a B.S. in Neuroscience in 2020 and then received a M.S. degree in Physiology in 2021. In her free time, she enjoys listening to true crime podcasts, cuddling her cats, and reading books. Her desire to teach yoga enhanced during the COVID-19 pandemic. She wanted to help people find a body-mind connection during a very stressful and overwhelming period of our lives. She is happy to share that she has been teaching yoga for almost two years now!
Certifications: 200 Hour RYT
Why do you love Rec Sports? During my undergraduate education, I worked as a Building Supervisor at the CCRB. I have always loved interacting with the staff and students through Recreational Sports, and I knew I wanted to return to this community once I received my yoga certification. I am so thankful that I have continued to be involved virtually!
What is your favorite snack? Hot Cheetos or Sour Patch Kids
