The UIS Recreation & Athletic Center (better known as TRAC) isn’t just a place for weights and treadmills. For those willing to make the trek across campus, TRAC offers a variety of hidden gems, including free fitness classes led by enthusiastic instructors.
One standout offering is Kickboxing, a high-intensity 50-minute workout that combines music, movement, and community.
“Getting fit and feeling good about yourself,” said instructor Lydia Schillinger, who also works as a customer service manager at the University Bursar’s Office. “Mind, body… It’s important to focus on your health.”
Schillinger has taught Kickboxing at UIS for six years, and while class times shift from semester to semester, her classes always take place at TRAC. Every Tuesday evening, students from all corners of campus gather to punch, kick, and sweat through a dynamic routine.
Each session begins with yoga-inspired stretches, followed by a light warmup. Soon, the tempo increases as participants dive into punching and kicking drills before moving to the heavy bags. Jab-hook-uppercut combinations get even the fittest students dripping with sweat.
But the best part? The class welcomes everyone.
“You don’t need any experience,” Schillinger said, noting that modified versions of all exercises are available. “All fitness levels can kickbox. I always encourage my students to just keep moving.”
No equipment or prior training is required. Interested students can visit the UIS events calendar or the UIS Connectionspage for Campus Rec to find out when the next class kicks off.
It might just be the perfect way to fight the Freshman Fifteen: One punch at a time!
