Given the wide array of wellness classes the College of William and Mary offers, it can be daunting to decide which to take.
To address this, The Flat Hat conducted an anonymous survey analyzing which Fitwell classes students enjoy and what makes some stand out more than others.
The survey found that Cycling, Body Pump, Pilates and WERQ Dance Fitness are the most popular Fitwell classes among students. The classes in the Student Recreation Center focus more on resistance, strength and cardio training. These workouts are typically more intense and focus on toning and building muscle.
Respondents said that what makes these classes an enjoyable experience is often the instructors. Respondents listed that they value “the enthusiasm and support from the instructors,” how they are “always very positive and keep [them] motivated” and “make [them] feel inspired” by fostering an inclusive community.
In a statement to The Flat Hat, Abhaya Tyrka ’27, a barre instructor at the Rec, stated the positive energy that comes with an often full Pilates or Barre class.
“It is definitely exciting that classes are usually completely filled because it creates such an energetic and supportive environment for everyone there!” she wrote.
Tyrka also described her joy in seeing students devote time to their wellness.
“I also am just so happy that students are taking the time to focus on their wellness during such a busy time of the year,” she said.
Our survey also found that students enjoy the WERQ Dance Fitness and Cardio Dance classes because of the class’ unique workout experience.
“I love to dance, but I’m not as interested in going to the gym, nor do I have a good idea of how to exercise properly on my own,” one survey respondent said. “Cardio Dance is a great way for me to follow along and exercise, and the choreography and songs make it so much more interesting and enjoyable.”
Another respondent mentioned the fun nature of the class.
“It’s a super fun way to get a workout in without feeling like a workout,” they said.
Another factor that makes these classes stand out to students is how rewarding they can be.
“I always feel like I have had a well-rounded exercise of both my body and brain,” one respondent said.
In an interview with The Flat Hat, Liyana Astafa ’27 noted her love for the WERQ Dance class.
“My favorite class is WERQ cardio dance with Atticus Gore. It’s a fun way to get exercise in, and even though the walk to The Rec can be long, it’s always worth it because it makes me feel confident,” Astafa said.
Another cycling class participant described their empowering experience.
“I always leave cycling classes feeling strong and proud.” “They give me a sense of accomplishment after completion and they “[always] wake me up in the morning.”
The McLeod Tyler Wellness Center also offers many classes that are of less intensity, but students still find them fulfilling and impactful.
Our survey found that students thoroughly enjoy the Yoga and Meditation class and the Vinyasa Yoga class in addition to the other yoga classes. These classes often take a slower pace and help students focus thoughts and breathing.
One respondent shared that they “love to take yoga as a form of self-care.” Especially for students who are feeling stressed or anxious, yoga is known to be best for those who need to reset and recharge.
Another respondent mentioned that they “love the supportive environment and slow energy.”
In a separate interview with The Flat Hat, Kate McCann ’26 described why Yoga and Meditation was her favorite class.
“My favorite wellness class is Yoga and Meditation because it feels like a really good way to start my day, and I’m always really proud of myself for going. It feels good to be in the Wellness Center in a space immersed in nature,” McCann said.
The survey also analyzed what time of day is most popular to take a Fitwell class. The evening classes were shown to be the most popular, filling up the fastest, and they seem to be the right choice for those who want to participate in a fuller class.
On the other hand, the morning and afternoon classes tend to be less crowded and may be the best fit for someone who prefers there to be fewer people. Many of the popular classes are offered in the mornings and evenings at the Wellness Center and The Rec.
Regardless of fitness level or experience, students at the College have come to love Fitwell’s high-energy classes like Cycling and WERQ Dance Fitness and the calming effects of Yoga and Meditation.
