Fitness & Wellness

UAB URec group fitness classes offer many benefits for you and an enjoyable way to get closer to your goals. These dynamic classes, provide motivation, accountability, and community. Exactly what you need to keep going on your fitness journey. 

UAB URec classes cater to all fitness levels so you'll feel right at home even if you're just getting started. Our group fitness classes offer fun and variety in your exercise routine so you don't get bored. You'll thrive in our positive environment, boosting your confidence and maximizing your results.

Traditional Okinawan Karate

Discover the ancient art of Traditional Okinawan Karate in this progressive training program. Because each class builds on the skills learned in the previous session, participants must register by October 1, 2026.

This dynamic martial art is rooted in tradition, discipline, and practical self-defense. Students develop physical strength, mental focus, and self-confidence while learning powerful strikes, effective blocks, and fluid movement techniques.

Unlike competitive combat sports such as MMA and kickboxing, Traditional Okinawan Karate places a strong emphasis on character development. Training is designed to build not only martial skills but also the values that support lifelong personal growth.

The guiding motto of this style is: Friendship • Cooperation • Learning

According to developer and instructor Sensei Iha, friendship comes first. He believes it is the most important aspect of karate training. Through regular practice, students support one another, build meaningful relationships, and cultivate humility, kindness, compassion, selflessness, and respect.

In this program, you'll strengthen both body and mind while embracing the rich heritage of Okinawa. Whether you are new to martial arts or looking to deepen your practice, this journey offers a rewarding path toward confidence, discipline, and personal growth.

Registration closes October 1, 2026. Reserve your spot today.

Register Here!

How to Pre-Register:

Using the online system:

1. Sign in to our Online Portal. Please note that you will need to use your UAB URec credentials –NOT YOUR BLAZER ID. If you need to create credentials please contact Membership Team at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or 205-934-8224
2. Once you are logged in click “Group Fitness"
3. Find the class you want to attend and click on it
4. A pop-up menu with information about the class will appear
5. Click “Enroll”
6. Choose the name of the member (you) who is reserving the spot for the Class
7. Click “Register"
8. A “Thank You" message will appear to confirm the booking

Note: You can view your reservations by visiting the “Member Information" section on the home page and choosing “Account Summary".Scroll down to the “Current Reservations" section to view bookings.To cancel click specific reservations and then choose “Cancel Booking".

Using the app:

1. Download The UAB Campus Recreation App
2. Log in using your credentials (different from Blazer ID login) If you need to create credentials please contact Membership Team at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.or 205-934-8224
3. Choose “Classes" on the bottom of the screen
4. Choose the day on the top of the screen and tap the class that you are interested in joining
5. Tap “Book”
6. Choose the name of the member (you) who is reserving the spot in the Class and tap “Next”
7. A “Thank You" message will appear to confirm the booking.You will also be able to add this booking to your calendar.

Note: You can view your reservation on the home page of the app by choosing the different days from the calendar list towards the top of the screen.To cancel, click the reservation in this calendar view and choose “cancel".

If you need further assistance with class registration, please email our Fitness team at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Late Policy

Cancellation Policy

No Show Policy

UAB University Recreation Commitment to Inclusivity

UAB University Recreation programs and events are designed to help students, faculty, and staff become involved in recreational activities regardless of age, gender, handicap, skill level, or past experience. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment and providing programs that support all members. Our expectation of the UAB community is to embrace an open-minded and respectful attitude toward individual differences of all participants.

Should you need any accommodations, please fill out the URec Programming Disability Accommodations Request Form.

Programming Disability Accommodation Request