Madison College is expanding its physical education program by creating dedicated rooms on the second floor above the fitness center.

The space will mainly focus on aerobic classes like dancing and ballet, but classes such as yoga and stress management will also be held there.

The goal of the physical education department is to provide students with an area where they can peacefully learn and practice balance, strength, and stress management.

The rooms will be fully renovated with glass mirrors, mounted ballet bars, and sprung wood floors that have give and allow for better movement. Large windows will be placed across the room, so natural sun light can seep in to better maintain the atmosphere and allow for more spiritual vibes.

Previously, the area where these classes were located was next to the basketball courts and gym where the sound of dribbling balls and crashing weights could be overheard by a yoga class. They would use the gym floor, and had equipment that were old and worn, such as their acrylic mirrors and standalone ballet bars.

The modern renovations will enhance the education of the students, and be a fully organic lab space.

This new lab space has been years in the making according to Robin Fonfara, a teacher in the physical education department.

She spoke of her excitement and eagerness to start with the new space saying, “the new physical education lab will be a beautiful, state-of-the-art, safe environment for students to take classes like dance classes, yoga (and) stress management…”

“This environment has been designed to enhance student learning by having a sacred space to work on their learning, set goals for themselves, and enjoy their classes,” she added.

Now that they have their own area, students and faculty can fully focus and enjoy their classes. This new area should be ready for classes beginning Spring 2018. The classes offered will be Ballet I, Jazz I, Social Dance, Beginning Yoga, Intermediate Yoga, and Foundations of Stress Management.