Move to Succeed: Fresno State Kinesiology Classes Help Students
Fresno, Calif-College students often deal with busy schedules, work and stress. At Fresno State, many students are finding a way to manage that pressure through movement-based kinesiology classes.
Fresno State South Gym
These classes are offered through the Fresno State Department of Kinesiology. They encourage students to stay active while also supporting their physical and mental health. Many of the courses are held at the South Gym throughout the week and include activities such as dance, fencing, kendo and swimming for beginners.
For some students, these classes provide a break from the stress of their academic workload.
“Anytime after my dance class I was definitely stress free and I was able to do my work very easily,” said Yadira Mosqueda, a Fresno State Social Work major.
The kinesiology department offers several one-unit activity courses, often referred to as KAC classes, that meet regularly throughout the semester. Instructors say these classes help students stay active while balancing their academic responsibilities.
“The KAC as we call them are very important because it gives students a chance to move on a regular basis,” said Jenelle N. Gilbert, chair of the Department of Kinesiology. “The classes generally meet twice a week for 50 minutes.”
Students can find the full list of available movement classes through the My Fresno State portal. The variety of options allows students to choose activities that fit their interests and schedules.
Health experts say regular physical activity can have benefits beyond fitness. Danielle Mendoza, a mental health educator, says exercise plays an important role in improving mood and reducing stress.
“When you exercise you release endorphins,” Mendoza said. “That’s a feel-good hormone that helps you feel energized and overall better.”
Research supports these claims. According to the National Institutes of Health, regular exercise can help reduce symptoms of depression and improve overall mental health.
Dance professor Kenneth Balint says movement is essential for both physical and cognitive well-being.
“Your brain just isn’t supposed to sit down in a lecture hall and get sedentary,” Balint said.
For many Fresno State students, kinesiology activity classes are more than just a requirement — they are an opportunity to stay active, reduce stress and stay focused throughout the semester.