Intro to Recreation
Discover Your Active Side
College life can be busy, but staying active doesn’t have to be overwhelming. This page is designed just for those who want to explore recreation options in a low-pressure, beginner-friendly way.
Whether you're curious about trying a group fitness class, want to join a chill hike with friends, or need tips for feeling comfortable in the gym, we’ve got you covered. No experience? No problem. This is all about finding what feels good and works for your lifestyle.
Get moving, meet new people, and build healthy habits that stick.
Intro Fitness Classes to get you going
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Sunrise Spin

This spin class is designed as an early morning beginner-friendly workout. Perfect for beginners or anyone looking for a quick and effective cardio workout to start their day.
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K-Pop Dance

Ready to turn up the energy this summer? K‑Pop Dance 101 is the perfect intro class for anyone excited to learn the moves behind today’s hottest K‑Pop hits—no prior dance experience needed! You’ll learn foundational choreography, timing, and style while boosting confidence, coordination, and cardio fitness.
Click below for more information and registration options!
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Aqua Aerobics
Aqua Aerobics is a low‑impact, high‑energy fitness class designed for all experience levels. Using the resistance of water, this class delivers a full‑body workout that improves strength, cardio endurance, flexibility, and balance, while being easy on the joints. Expect upbeat music, guided movements, and a refreshing way to stay active.
View registration options below! -
Intro to Exercise & the Gym
Are you new to working out or feeling unsure about the gym? This welcoming small group class is led by a Certified Personal Trainer who will guide you through the basics of weight training, gym equipment, and proper form—no experience needed! Each week builds your confidence and knowledge, helping you feel strong, supported, and ready to make the gym your own.Learn more and find registration options below!
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Women on Weights
Ready to build strength with confidence? Women on Weights is a supportive, beginner‑friendly class that introduces weight training fundamentals in a welcoming environment. You’ll learn proper lifting techniques, how to use free weights and machines, and how to create an effective strength routine—boosting confidence, power, and overall fitness along the way.
View registration options below!
No experience needed Intramural Sports
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10v10 Softball
Be a part of a team this semester with 10v10 Softball! This Intramural Sport is a great way to start the semester swinging! Perfect for players of all levels, this intro sport helps you build your community and your skills. Focusing on hand-eye coordination and team communication, 10v10 Softball is the perfect way to get started in Intramurals. -
Doubles Tennis
Team up for Doubles Tennis on campus! This exciting, partner-based format adds strategy and teamwork to every match. Whether you’re new to doubles or an experienced player, it’s a fun way to stay active, communicate on the court, and build connections through shared competition. -
6v6 Volleyball
Get outside and play big with 8v8 Outdoor Soccer on campus! This team-based format emphasizes movement, skill, and teamwork in an open-air setting. Whether you’re new to the pitch or a longtime player, outdoor soccer is a great way to stay active, meet new people, and compete in a fun, supportive environment.
Intro friendly climbing opportunities
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Try bouldering at the SRC

Looking for a fresh, engaging workout? Try bouldering at the climbing wall! This rope-free style of climbing focuses on short routes that build strength, balance, and problem-solving skills. No experience needed—bring your curiosity and use a free pair of climbing shoes provided at the SRC. With padded flooring and routes for all skill levels, bouldering is a safe and social way to get moving and have fun. Come climb with us!
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Join a Belay Clinic!

Climbing is a great way to get in a fun and exciting work out. You can use the climbing shoes provided by the climbing wall in the SRC to start bouldering, or join a belay clinic by clicking below to get started!
In this course, you will be taught how to use the PBUS belay method, the figure 8 follow-through, and WSU-specific practices. At the end of the course, you'll have the opportunity to have your belay technique assessed by the instructor and earn a qualification. Qualifications will allow you to participate in roped climbing during facility hours.
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Learn to thrive on the Auto Belays

Want to climb higher without needing a partner? Our auto belay systems make it easy! These devices safely lower you to the ground after each climb, so you can focus on having fun and building confidence. A quick 5-minute training with a staff member is all it takes to get qualified. Once you're set, you can access various vertical routes designed for all skill levels. Give it a try, your climbing adventure starts here!
Beginner-friendly Outdoor Adventures
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Sunset Hike at Kamiak Butte
Experience the beauty of the Palouse at golden hour with our Sunset Hike at Kamiak Butte! This guided hike is perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a relaxed outdoor adventure while taking in sweeping views as the sun sets over rolling hills and farmlands. Whether you’re new to hiking or just looking for a peaceful evening on the trail, this outing is designed to be welcoming and approachable. Along the way, we’ll set a comfortable pace, share insights about the landscape, and leave plenty of time to soak in the scenery. Join us for fresh air, stunning views, and a memorable sunset in one of the region’s most iconic natural areas. -
Sunset Paddle (Stand Up Paddle Board)
Enjoy a peaceful evening on the water with our Sunset Stand Up Paddle Trip! This guided outing is perfect for anyone looking to unwind and experience the beauty of sunset from a unique on-the-water perspective. Whether you’re new to stand-up paddling or just looking for a relaxed way to end the day, we’ll provide a supportive, easygoing environment. We’ll cover basic paddling techniques, water safety, and allow plenty of time to soak in the calm conditions and changing light. Join us for smooth paddling, scenic views, and a memorable sunset on the water. -
Intro to Whitewater Kayaking
Experience the excitement of moving water with our Intro to Whitewater Kayaking program! Designed for beginners, this course provides a fun and supportive introduction to the fundamentals of whitewater paddling. Over two days on a local river, you'll learn essential skills such as reading river features, navigating currents safely, and practicing self-rescue and group rescue techniques. Our experienced instructors will guide you every step of the way, helping you build confidence on the water while enjoying a memorable outdoor adventure. Join us to develop new skills, challenge yourself, and discover the thrill of whitewater kayaking. -
Beginner Backpacking at Bead Lake
Discover the rewards of backcountry travel with our Beginner Backpacking at Bead Lake adventure! This introductory trip is perfect for anyone interested in learning the fundamentals of backpacking while exploring the natural beauty of northeastern Washington. As we hike to and camp near scenic Bead Lake, participants will gain hands-on experience with essential outdoor skills, including packing a backpack, filtering water, cooking in the backcountry, and practicing Leave No Trace principles. Whether you're brand new to overnight wilderness travel or looking to build confidence outdoors, this trip offers a supportive and welcoming environment to learn, explore, and connect with nature.
Tips to get you started in the gym
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Start with a tour

Before diving in, take a free tour of the Student Recreation Center or Chinook Student Center. Staff can show you how to check in, where equipment is located, and how to access locker rooms, fitness studios, and more.
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Ask staff if you have a question

Learn how to safely use cardio machines, weight machines, and free weights with guidance from trained staff. Are you curious about where to get started? Our friendly staff will be more than happy to help you.
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Set small, achieveable goals to start

Start with short workouts (20–30 minutes) and build up gradually. Whether it’s walking on the treadmill or trying a beginner strength circuit, consistency is key. Keep an eye on our Instagram page for personal trainer tips and beginner friendly workouts!
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Bring a friend or workout buddy

Having someone with you can make the experience more fun and less intimidating. You can motivate each other, share tips, and explore new workouts together.
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Start with one area, then expand

The gym can feel overwhelming with so many zones—cardio, weights, stretching, etc. Pick one area to start with, like the cardio machines or functional training zone, and get comfortable there before exploring more.
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Practice gym etiquette

Wipe down equipment after use, re-rack weights, and be mindful of shared space. These small actions help create a respectful and welcoming environment for everyone.
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Try a fitness class

Group classes like Intro to Exercise and the Gym, Intro to Spin, or Intro to Yoga are all beginner-friendly and a great way to stay motivated. Chinook and SRC offer dozens of classes weekly—check out more beginner friendly classes in the category above or scroll through our offerings by clicking here.