Lauren Kline is the Fitness Coordinator for Wellness and Special Events for Recreational Sports and Fitness at American University in Washington D.C. She is from Chagrin Falls, Ohio and got her undergraduate degree in Health Promotion from Miami University of Ohio. She then worked as a wellness consultant at a grocery store in Chicago, Illinois. Lauren got her personal training certification and moved back to Ohio to work for Miami University as their fitness intern. That job lead her to being the Fitness Coordinator for Wellness and Special Events here at AU, starting in August of 2017.
I was fortunate to be able to schedule a meeting with Lauren to discuss her role as the Fitness Coordinator for Wellness and Special Events and why she thinks health and wellness for college students is important.
See our discussion below:
Q: What does being the Fitness Coordinator for Wellness and Special Events entail? What kind of work do you participate in?
A: Part of my job is being a part of the wellness programs and initiatives on campus such as Fresh Fruit Fridays at the gym that offers free fruit as a healthy snack after workouts. I support on-going programs, as well as planning the special events that the recreation center has. Our biggest event is Late Night at the Rec that happens during welcome week every year which is a little sampling of all our recreation services. Zumba is always a big hit!
Q: Why are you passionate about advocating for health and wellness for college students?
A: It wasn’t terribly long ago that I was a college student, and I’m actually taking undergraduate courses currently in the post-baccalaureate pre-med program. It’s fun to be amongst undergrads and have a new perspective being a few years older, and then try and help give them perspective and new tips that I’ve learned. I really like being a mentor to students. I think it’s an impactful time in a lot of students’ lives.
Q: Why do you think it’s important to maintain a healthy routine in college and what are the benefits?
A: I think that it gets a little crazy sometimes with school and being involved in clubs. It’s kind of a cliché term, but what do you have if you don’t have your health? You can’t do all the things you want or need to do if you don’t have your health. I think it’s important to let students know that their health comes first. Knowing how to prioritize your health is important because if you’re not physically feeling healthy, sometimes that can affect your mental health too. It’s a big transition for 4-5 years and I think it really helps to speak to and educate students about their health at this time in their lives.
Q: What services does Recreational Sports and Fitness provide that you wish more students knew about or utilized more?
A: In group fitness we have a free happy hour class on Fridays from 5:15-6:15pm. Since group fitness is an extra fee, it’s nice that we have one free offering each week. I also wish more students knew about some of our programs such as Women on Weights which helps women learn how to be comfortable in the weight room with a resistance training routine.
Q: What advice would you give to a student just starting to get involved in focusing on health and fitness?
A: Late Night at the Rec opens up the doors for students to see what we offer, as well as utilizing our introductory programs like Women on Weights. We also have an introductory program targeted at men and yoga called “broga” in the spring. Take advantage of our group fitness opportunities because the classes are catered to advanced students and beginner students- every student should be able to go there and have a great class. Also, come to as many of the special events and offerings that we have because they’re fun and a good way to build your fitness and health community.
Q: Who is your biggest female role model and why?
A: Definitely my mom- we have a really close relationship, and I think her journey in health has kind of lead my journey, as well. Also, my yoga teacher/trainer really inspires me because of her passion for health and fitness, as well as her determination to get down to the actual truth of some of the fitness trends that are out there.
Q: What is your favorite way to de-stress during a busy week?
A: Being outside for sure! I also participate in cross fit. Even though it’s a high intensity workout, it’s actually pretty meditative for me because it’s the only thing I’m focusing on. I also like to take yoga classes, and go out to dinner with my husband.
Q: What is your favorite healthy snack?
A: Trail mix! I always make sure there’s some kind of chocolate in there. Right now, I’m hooked on Trader Joe’s cashew, almond, cranberry and dark chocolate blend.
XOXO, Sophie
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