Engaging in exercise is a powerful means of fostering strength and empowerment, particularly for women. Embracing fitness can enhance confidence, improve mental well-being, and create a sense of community. However, many women may feel judged or anxious about entering a gym environment.
Below are five fantastic fitness programs at the University of Georgia designed specifically to cultivate an empowering atmosphere for women to exercise.
Women’s Weightlifting Sessions
At the University of Georgia, Women’s Weightlifting Sessions provide a dedicated space for women to refine their weightlifting techniques. This supportive environment focuses solely on improving form and lifting skills.
Two sessions will run this spring, each lasting around two months, with specific meeting times determined by the program.
The cost ranges from $60 to $90, and participants aged 18 to 99 are welcome to join. Availability is limited, so early registration is encouraged.
Participants will also receive guidance on creating their personalized weightlifting programs that cater to their unique goals and requirements.
Defensive Arts & Personal Well-being
Offered through UGA’s recreational sports department, the Defensive Arts & Personal Well-being program integrates strength and cardio training with practical self-defense techniques applicable to real-life situations. This course is open to women of all skill levels, especially those with minimal experience.
Three sessions will be available throughout the spring.
A significant focus of this class is on psychoeducation; participants will explore their physiological and psychological responses to high-stress scenarios, learning valuable coping strategies along the way.
The course has a fee of $60 to $90 and welcomes ages 18 to 100.
Girl Gains at UGA
Girl Gains is an international movement with over 100 chapters dedicated to empowering women through weightlifting. The chapter at UGA is aimed at creating an inclusive community that promotes body positivity, strength, and knowledge among female lifters.
Meetings include informational sessions, beginner classes, and group weightlifting workouts, all tailored for UGA students as a collegiate initiative.
CHAARG at UGA
CHAARG is a nationwide organization present on over 100 college campuses, inspiring young women to discover that fitness should be enjoyable. The UGA chapter is a wellness community open to all students, holding weekly workouts every Tuesday at 6:30 p.m.
These workout sessions often collaborate with local organizations such as Slow Girl Run Club, UGA Bhakti Yoga, Club Pilates, and more.
To become a member of the chapter, participants should purchase a membership, which includes access to weekly workouts, small group activities, social events, and additional opportunities.
Slow Girl Run Club
The Slow Girl Run Club is a welcoming community for women of all ages who enjoy running. With routes that are all under two miles, this group meets regularly at Fleet Feet and Jittery Joe’s in Five Points, accommodating all paces of walking, jogging, and running.
In addition to regular runs, Slow Girl Run Club also organizes social events, including gear swaps and community coffee runs, where members gather for coffee after their morning exercise.
Women who wish to bring their friendly dogs that are comfortable in large groups are also invited to join in the runs.
