Until recently, I didn’t know much about the Campus Recreation program. Did you know you can go on hiking and camping trips? Or that you can play competitive disk golf, indoor soccer, and go rock climbing? You can also take a group fitness class in yoga, zumba, and even belly dancing. And everything is free!

Campus Recreation is divided into Fit/Well, Intramurals, Aquatics, and Outdoor Adventures. There’s a place for everyone. They provide recreational opportunities that promote healthy lifestyles, social interactions, and leadership skills. And sometimes you even get a free t-shirt.

Last fall, a group went camping in Helena at the Delta Heritage State Park. They rode bikes, kayaked, and learned a little about the history of the Delta. A few of these students had never been outside Little Rock before, so it was a great opportunity for them to experience something new.

This little video highlights some of adventures they had.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WEQKoew2jeU

They’re still working on a schedule for this year’s hiking and camping trips so be sure and check back if you’re interested.

If you’d rather get your recreation inside a gym, check out the numerous classes being offered in the Fit/Well program. There will also be a Biggest Loser Boot Camp starting next week. It’s a competition-based program consisting of boot camp classes, exercise challenges, and weigh-ins. It costs $5 to join.

Intramural sports offer you the chance to play healthy, competitive sports like flag football, basketball, disk golf, dodgeball, and racquetball along with many others. It’s a great way to stay active, meet friends, learn a new sport, and get involved on campus.

For those who love the water, UALR has Arkansas’ only Olympic-sized pool. You can swim laps or join a water aerobics class.

The fitness center is open 6 a.m. – 11 p.m. Monday- Thursday, 6 a.m. – 7 p.m. Friday, 11 a.m. – 7 p.m. Saturday, and 11 a.m. – 11 p.m. Sunday.

With the new year upon us, now is a perfect time to get involved in one of Campus Recreation’s many activities. Not only will you burn some calories, you’ll probably make a few new friends too.