Article by: Emily Bowers, Contributing Writer
On Thursday, Sept. 17, South Alabama’s National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) held a Pilates class in the Student Recreation Center for students. This event was put together by NAACP President Hannah VanDiver and Second Vice President Atorria Caphus.
The class was led by Meg Hannan, who regularly instructs a versatile lineup of group fitness classes. For the NAACP event, Meg included basic Pilates moves, incorporating weights, mats, sliders and balls in order to complete a well-rounded workout.
Pilates concentrates on focusing fully on every single movement to get the best result. It uses the mind to precisely direct muscles and to direct deliberate patterns that focus on the core, which is the powerhouse for all movements. This form of exercise incorporates deep, rhythmic breathwork to fuel muscles with oxygen while maximizing physical activation.
As students entered the room, the atmosphere quickly became energetic and welcoming, with students gathering their materials before finding a place. As the event was open to all interested, it brought people together who may not usually interact with each other. To match the vibe and to get students hyped, upbeat music was played to create an environment where students could focus on the workout while still enjoying themselves.
The class started with stretches to get participants prepared for the workout. Afterward, the workout quickly began, including a variety of exercises that challenged different muscle groups. Most of the workout focused heavily on the core, incorporating weights and sliders to add some resistance and challenge the body. As the workout progressed, the intensity increased as well, requiring students to stay focused while keeping up with the pace of the class. The intense workout ended with stretches to relax our minds and allow our bodies to move into a comfortable state before leaving.
The main purpose of this event was to give students an opportunity to take a break and do something that relaxes their minds and boosts their endorphins, serotonin, and dopamine. With September being Suicide Prevention Month and midterms being held at the end of September, students continuously face academic pressure and stress. This was an opportunity for anyone, whether a part of the organization or not, to step away from schoolwork and put their focus toward physical activity. The class allowed students to socialize and participate in an activity designed to support their physical and mental well-being.
The biggest thing the NAACP wanted people to take away from this Pilates class was for students to get out of their rooms and to “turn off their brains,” as President Hannah said. Along with this, the event was an opportunity for students to get to know each other outside of their normal meeting environment and put their focus toward something that is beneficial to all. For anyone interested in other NAACP activities, follow their Instagram @naacp_southal.
