I never thought that I would be enrolled in a virtual walking class. But I am.
As Hamilton transitioned to remote learning, coaches also adapted their models for students to chip away at the PE requirement. After spring break, the registrar added two additional courses:
High Intensity Interval Training
(HIIT) and
Walking for Fitness
. Taught by the squash coach, James King, our class runs both asynchronously and synchronously.
Every Tuesday, we cover a new aspect of the syllabus from safe walking techniques, nutrition, warm-ups, how to plan our routes et cetera. In addition to Coach King’s advice on safe walking, using the screen share feature on zoom, he shows us videos of professional walkers’ techniques. I’ve learned tips such as pumping my arms at a 90 degree angle while moving my legs to gain momentum- the faster the arms move, the faster the walker goes. We’ve also had useful conversations on how to overcome obstacles in developing and sticking to fitness plans while socially distant. A common theme among students is not being able to keep up with their fitness goals while socially distancing without the company and motivation from peers to keep them accountable. Coach King guided us on how to reroute our negative thoughts regarding such potential hurdles, turning them into positive affirmations to allow each student to succeed and achieve their individual goals. On Thursdays, Coach King hosts open hours for students to discuss their individual walking plans. Each week, students are required to complete a minimum of two 30-minute walks and record each one in a journal which we then submit weekly. The expectation is that the journals cover how we felt emotionally, physically and mentally before, during and after the walk.
My experience in the class so far has been nothing but positive. Although the fun aspect of an in-person PE class is the random mix of students across class years, it is cool to have the flexibility to complete my requirement remotely. As all my classes now require hours of sedentary screen time, the virtual PE class keeps me accountable and reminds me to go outside and get some fresh air. Despite the irony of some of my walks around my neighborhood being mandatory, the time set aside allows me to listen to music and clear my mind while getting some exercise in.
Walking for Fitness
is continuing to teach the enrolled students how to acknowledge their emotions, challenge their negative thoughts and work towards attain small goals every day. I highly recommend this class if the department offers it again, regardless of whether it’s in-person or on-screen.
