There are many exercise classes offered on campus that can take away stress from the work load for just less than an hour, from kickboxing to even yoga.

Zumba is a favorite of one student in particular because it doesn’t feel like working out “because you’re having so much fun,’’ Sierra Savage, a second-year unified early childhood student, said.

According to the UW-Eau Claire website, the Latin dance inspired cardio party atmosphere consists of “energizing and body sculpting movements meant to engage and captivate for a fun invigorating workout.”

Zumba is held in the Hilltop Recreation Center studio on Sundays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays and is free, as are all the workout classes, with a Blugold ID.

Savage attends Zumba with her friends every Thursday and said she wants to start going on Sunday nights as well.

“It’s a good way to just have fun with friends by just laughing at each other because we all suck at dancing,” Savage said.

Savage said she keeps coming back because it’s a huge stress reliever and the environment is non-judgemental. She said that nobody really cares how you dance, it’s however you want.

Savage has attended many workout classes here on campus.

“I’ve done butts and guts, cycling, yoga and zumba,” Savage said. “Zumba is the most fun because I feel like the other classes are more intense workouts.”

Macy Laluzerne, a second-year psychology student, said she started attending the class because Savage encouraged her to attend. With her busy schedule, she said it’s a great way to relieve a little stress and to take a break from homework.

Marissa Rahn, an instructor of Zumba on Tuesday and Thursday nights, also believes that taking 50 minutes out of your busy day to go to the class is well worth it.

“Zumba is a wonderful de-stresser, whether you’re coming to get a good workout in or just dance it out for a little while,’’ Rahn said.

Rahn is a third-year Spanish education and Latin American studies student. She said this is her second semester teaching the class on campus and that it’s been one of the best aspects of being a student here at UW-Eau Claire.

“My favorite part by far is the people who come and make it a fun class,” Rahn said. “It wouldn’t be the same without them and the smiles and energy they bring.”

On top of the regulars who come and make it enjoyable, Rahn said it’s a great environment to meet new people, make connections and just be yourself.

“Overall, it’s just a great place to shake it off and have a good time,” Rahn said.

For more information, check out the Blugold website for all of the workout classes UW-Eau Claire has to offer.

Erickson can be reached at [email protected].