A Space to Play

UC San Diego Recreation classes go virtual through 'The Playground' F ive weeks have passed since the official stay-at-home order was issued in California in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Many people have begun to go stir crazy from being confined within four walls as they diligently commit to the safety of others. Movement and social interaction remains a basic need for everyone, and UC San Diego Recreation has created a space for both. Called the Playground , it welcomes all campus community members to dance, meditate, compete in esports, learn to draw and more through free virtual classes. "Instead of simply creating a page that lists helpful resources, we wanted to create a themed space that would inspire others to stay positive, active and healthy during these hard times," said Mari Chosich, marketing director for Recreation. "The Playground is a place where we can all hang out, be ourselves, learn and play." Launched on March 25, the Playground is designed by Recreation's Lauren Lara. It now offers nearly a dozen live classes each weekday , ranging from high-intensity workouts such as circus conditioning and barre HIIT to a multitude of dance lessons such as ballet, hip hop and ballroom.