Group Fitness Instructor Interview

Need a break from classes? Come take a FREE class and see all the different options The Rec has to offer. From early morning Ride & Glide at 6 a.m. to Night Cycle at 7 p.m., there are so many options available and an opportunity for everyone to get moving. I recently interviewed Group Fitness instructor Alyssa Hattenstein to talk about her journey to getting certified and how classes becoming free has transformed the energy and atmosphere inside The Rec.

When it comes to the Auburn Recreation and Wellness Center, there is a wide variety of fun and engaging classes led by student instructors and designed for all fitness levels. Whether you are looking to have fun with friends, build strength, or improve flexibility, Group Fitness has something for everyone.

Group Fitness Instructor - Alyssa Hattenstein

Alyssa Hattenstein is a sophomore majoring in exercise science and has been teaching Group Fitness classes at Auburn Rec for a little over a year. Her passion for fitness and helping others has led her to pursue becoming an instructor early in her college career. I had the opportunity to ask her a few questions about her time instructing at Auburn Rec and what inspired her to get started.

What first inspired you to become a group fitness instructor?

“I’ve always had a love for fitness and movement, which led me to major in exercise science. I knew I wanted to help other people with their health journey, and I figured group fitness was a great place to start. I was always a heavy lifting gym girl, but I attended my first group fitness class during the free week of my freshman year at the Rec and automatically fell in love with the upbeat songs and welcoming instructors who challenged me just the right amount.”

How long have you been teaching, and how did you get started at Auburn Rec?

“I started training during the fall of my freshman year and began teaching on my own at the Rec during the spring semester. I’m now a sophomore, so I’ve been teaching for a little over a year.”

What to Expect in a Group Fitness Class

For students who may feel nervous about trying their first class, Alyssa says that Group Fitness is designed to be welcoming and accessible to everyone. She encourages participants to expect a lot of fun while working their powerhouse muscles, as they will definitely feel the burn by the end of the workout.

How have you seen participation change since making Group Fitness free?

“There has been a significant increase in attendance, which is great for building community and makes classes more fun and welcoming. It’s a great way to increase movement for both students and faculty by giving them a fun way to stay active. I’ve heard great feedback from participants this semester because they no longer feel the financial intimidation, and many people are finding it more inclusive since they can bring friends. I find that participants often use Group Fitness as a fun activity they can do together.”

Try Group Fitness for Yourself

Group Fitness is free for all members, and there’s no better way to get active with friends. With so many fun and upbeat classes, you’ll find an encouraging community that makes working out enjoyable. Group Fitness is a great way to stay active and connect with others while improving your health and wellness.

To view the full Group Fitness schedule and find a class that fits your routine, visit the Group Fitness schedule on the Auburn Rec & Wellness website and sign up through IMLeagues.

Be Well, Auburn.