Located in the heart of campus, the Leslie C. Quick Jr. Recreation Complex (RecPlex) is a critical aspect of student life. Whether it is simply walking by on the way to class or spending a few hours playing sports, getting in some movement or attending a workout class, the building is always buzzing with movement.
Past the front desk and underneath the slamming of weights, students can find a room few may know about. With flashing lights, an upbeat playlist and good spirits, the spin room located in the basement is a perfect place to add some positive movement to your day.
Senior Emily Gale has been a spin instructor at Fairfield since her junior year. As a first-year student, Gale remembers being excited to gain new experiences, specifically within fitness.
“At first, I was intimidated to take a spin class,” she explains. Gale had no prior experience with this style of exercise.
It was after Gale took that first step, or push, that led her to fall in love with the inspiring environment. “I felt so uplifted by the instructor and felt a sense of confidence and accomplishment after working so hard in the class. Being surrounded by so many kind people and listening to the amazing music each class made going to spin my favorite way to work out,” Gale remembers.
After finding a new love for spin, Gale reached out to her favorite instructor who helped guide her through the process of running a successful class. Attributing the process of becoming an instructor as easier than expected, Gale further explains that her favorite instructor was able to write her a letter of recommendation, to help provide a better chance of getting the job. “I then took an online class to gain my certification, interviewed with the Assistant Director of Fitness and Programming at the RecPlex and got the job!” she explains.
“I chose to become an instructor so I could create a welcoming environment where students feel safe to grow their self-confidence and enjoy working out,” Gale explains. It mirrors the “Mind Body Spirit” mindset of the university.
“Teaching and empowering students on campus through my classes brings me so much joy,” Gale explains. “I’m passionate about fostering a supportive community that encourages everyone to challenge themselves and celebrate their progress.”
Gale shares that her main goals are to inspire students not just physically, but mentally and emotionally to ensure they can leave each class motivated and stronger.
This year Gale teaches three classes a week on campus at the RecPlex: Mondays at 9:30 a.m., Thursdays at 9:30 a.m. and Sundays at 12:30 p.m.
“I prefer teaching morning classes during the week because it helps me get a positive start to my day,” Gale states.
As a nursing student, Gale relies on spin to be an outlet for times when she seems stressed or overwhelmed. Explaining that each class gives her the opportunity to listen to music and direct all her focus on the workout, Gale states that “Working out helps me clear my head, allowing me to feel centered and refocused, which enables me to continue my daily routine feeling energized and motivated.”
One of the many highlights of the spin classes at Fairfield University are the amazing playlists. Before every semester, Gale curates a long list of ride themes, whether it is for a specific artist or a genre of music. Gale also ensures her student’s voices are heard by asking attendees for recommendations.
“Every Sunday night, I take three of my themes from my long list and use my list of exercises on the bike to see which tempo and beat of each song matches the routine best,” Gale explains.
To make sure she is fueled for every workout, Gale has a high protein snack and listens to an energetic song to make sure she is “ready to bring the energy” to her classes.
It is not just Gale who finds spin a place to let off some steam in an exciting and fun way. After an underclassman expressed that Gale’s class was the highlight of their week, Gale explains, “I became an instructor to provide a safe space for students to build their self-confidence and have fun while working out. It makes me so happy to continue to teach and uplift students on campus through my classes.”
For those interested in trying out a spin class, sign up by visiting the Recreation Complex section of the Fairfield University website. Under the Fairfield Fit tab, explore the many classes you can take to help incorporate movement into your day! Sign up using the imleagues link and get moving!
