The University Recreation Center hosted a condensed evening of Elas Tour-themed group fitness classes on Thursday, October 24, in honor of Taylor Swift’s Elas Tour arrival in New Orleans. The event drew dozens of attendees and highlighted the university’s unique programs. UREC Group X Program.
The Eras-themed event consisted of 20-minute fitness sessions themed around specific Swift albums. “Folklore” and “Evermore” for yoga, “Red” for cycling, etc. Sessions were carefully scheduled to allow participants to try a little bit of everything, creating a tour-like effect.
Participants also collected colored beads from each class and used them to make friendship bracelets. It pays homage to the tradition of Swift fans making and exchanging friendship bracelets at concerts. GroupX instructors helped with check-in and made sure the night ran smoothly, with some even decked out in their own Swift gear.
Colored beads for UREC Eras Night friendship bracelet. Photo by Miranda Alvarez.
The energy at the event was upbeat and fast-paced, with everyone having fun and forming new connections, from groups of friends sharing an admiration for Swift to individuals who just wanted to explore GroupX.
Ryan Lamb, UREC’s fitness program coordinator, said they want to create a welcoming environment that makes participants want to come back.
“Through Eras night, we want people to get a taste of the different classes GroupX has to offer,” Lam said. “During the semester, approximately 70 classes are held per week across the GroupX schedule. Through events like this, participants are encouraged to try new formats and find ways to move their bodies that are comfortable for them. You can.”
Through GroupX, LSU students, faculty and staff can participate in a variety of fitness classes, from Pilates to Zumba. The program has been revamped this year by hiring more instructors and increasing course content, resulting in UREC’s student and membership numbers reaching a whopping 6,000 since the start of the fall semester.
UREC is also running its annual Tiger Fit Challenge until Sunday, November 24th, where participants can take GroupX classes and win prizes based on how many they complete. This is another example of a creative program that increases engagement and makes fitness fun.
GroupX Pilates instructor Nellie Nguyen said her favorite part of her job is the community she’s fostered.
“I love Taylor Swift and teaching group fitness, so this was a collision of both of my worlds,” Nguyen said. “Your goal in life is to surround yourself with people who encourage you, and in group fitness, everyone has the same goal: to get better.”
To stay up to date on LSU UREC and upcoming events, follow us on Instagram @lsuurec.com.
