Fit to be Kean (FTBK) is a wellness program wherein a variety of workout classes offered throughout the semester. The class are designed and scheduled to be comprehensive, accessible and convenient. They even make it a point to share text updates so students are always informed.

It originally began as a student club in 2009. There is no sign-up required and classes typically take place in Downs Hall. Beyond that, the classes are free to Kean University students who are only expected to bring their student ID, work out attire and a bottle of water.

Anthony Brown, graduate assistant for Health Services, explains why it’s an important program for students. He states, “Fit to Be Kean classes is a great alternative to the gym because it features group exercise classes where students as well as the instructor motivate and push each other to reach their common goal. Also, FTBK offers a variety of fitness classes for all fitness levels so that everyone can be involved.”

Since its introduction, FTBK has offered a wide variety of classes including: Zumba toning, body blast, cardio kickboxing, yoga, core training, step aerobics, boot camp, total body conditioning and Cougar Intensity. Each class is taught by friendly, informed, certified trainers who guides and motivates students towards their fitness goals. Currently, they have a concrete schedule that has been in place since the beginning of spring 2016.

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Brown explains, “Students can take group exercise classes ranging from our fast pace “Zumba with Carmen” to the slower-paced but still invigorating “Yoga with Alexandra.”  The program also features Zumba, Cardio Kickboxing aerobic exercise classes and total body workouts.”

FTBK is a program within Health Services. Health Services has a wide range of qualified professionals to address the varying health issues and problems students face contemporarily. The registered nurses, nurse practitioners and physicians within the department tend to the pressing needs of the Kean community as well as nurturing the long-term health of the community. They handle everything from physical issues to mental health to disabilities and everything in between. Health Services is available to all full- and part-time, undergraduate and graduate students.

Brown States, “Fit to Be Kean is linked with Health Services, so participants have to opportunity to make wellness visits where they can take fitness assessments to assess their goals.”

For college students specifically, having a program like FTBK can be extremely beneficial. One vital component that exercise offers is stress relief. Exercising regularly will reduce stress and consequently students will handle midterms, papers, finals and overall schoolwork with much less anxiety. Additionally, through the programs students forge new friendships that promote and encourage their healthy lifestyles.

Brown states, “FTBK creates involvement on campus and it gives students the ability to partake in different fitness classes, while working out with friends on campus.”

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When students begin to consciously make healthy choices, their sleep, cardiovascular health and general mood is considerably improved. As a result, they feel better, look better and have more energy.

Brown states, “Fit to Be Kean is an all-inclusive program that enriches students with the benefits of exercise while having fun.”

Being physically in good health supports mental and emotional well-being. In that way, a healthy lifestyle is critical because it perpetuates all around health. Healthy lifestyles provide a solid foundation for positive outcomes in all aspects of life: school, work, recreation, relationships, ect. By exercising regularly, other areas of one’s life begin to reflect that healthy practice. FTBK is an opportunity for students to incorporate exercise into their daily lives. Beyond that, it makes healthy living into a habit so it is continued well after graduation.