Dealing with exercise anxiety on campus

Exercising is an integral part of living a healthy lifestyle. 

For many, working out, particularly in a gym setting, can be too much for people. 

Coordinator for the Exercise Science option at Fresno State, Dr. Mark Baldis, recognizes the anxiety that arises with people in the gym. He categories this anxiety into two forms.

”It’s a body image issue,” Baldis said. “And here you walk into a gym and you got all the gym rats, lots of mirrors on the walls and things like that. And they can’t get away.”

The anxiety doesn’t end there. Baldis also sees people overwhelmed with the “technology.”

”Everybody in here seems to know what the hell they’re doing and I don’t have any idea how to use this equipment,” Baldis said in regards to people’s thoughts at the gym.

This is where the Fresno State Recreation Center can help students.

The Rec Center has many different group fitness classes which students can take for free. Rather than being alone in the gym, these classes offer students to come together.

”When you go into a group setting, you’re there with a bunch of different people of all different backgrounds,” said Molly Ming, group fitness instructor. “So I feel that you can identify yourself with others.”

All students have to do is simply show up on time, scan in at the front desk and find the class that’s right for them.

”We offer cycle classes, Pilates classes, yoga, Zumba and strength classes,” Ming said. 

While these are viable options for getting exercise, Dr. Baldis noted that it can be even simpler.

”Do your own yard work, that’s physical activity,” Baldis said.

Ming shared a similar thought.

”I’m a big proponent of some movement is better than no movement,” Ming said.

The important thing is for students to find an exercise routine that they can actually follow without feeling any sort of pressure.

Students can learn more about what the Rec Center has to offer on their website or @fresnostaterec on Instagram.

You can watch the video story here.