CANNON AIR FORCE BASE, N.M. -- Rhythmic beats, heat emanating from the floor in a dark room filled with perseverance, pain and pride while Air Commandos cycle their way to vitality-this was the scene at the Fitness Center at Cannon Air Force Base, N.M., Oct. 29.

The Fitness Center at Cannon has a plethora of fitness classes available. Some of the classes include cardio cycling, toning Zumba, Cross-Fit fundamentals, physical training boot camp, body shock, yoga, total body resistance exercise, muscle works and more.

Indoor cardio cycling is an hour-long, aerobic exercise class focusing on strength, endurance, intervals, high intensity and usage of a stationary exercise bicycle. Some of the benefits include potential weight-loss and the opportunity to build a stronger cardiovascular system. This class may also be ideal for those who suffer from balance problems or arthritis.

"Make sure you bring water and go at your own pace," said Drake Davidson Cannon Fitness Center instructor. "Bring a great attitude. My class is intense, so it will take three classes to get used to it. After that you will FLY!"

During the Cycling class it was clear that Davidson's dedication and strong instruction was infectious.

"I think it takes a lot of dedication to sit up there and come every day and dedicate your off time; it takes commitment to be healthy not only for your physical training test, but also for your well-being," said Tech. Sgt. Nicole Franklin, 27th Special Operations Communication Squadron. "This class has helped me because it's motivating and fun. I think you have to find what motivates you and stick with it whether that is Cross-Fit or spin. I find that this class works for me," said Tech. Sgt. Franklin.

Franklin was not the only user with an overall positive attitude and benefits experienced as result of this particular class. Her enthusiastic fellow cyclist, Tech. Sgt. Roberto Yroz, 27th Special Operations Intelligence Squadron, shared his recent feat, one that this class helped him achieve.

"I had some difficulties adjusting when I first got here and I had a PT test failure, so I started coming to this class in the beginning of October," said Yroz. "I did a mock test yesterday and I already dropped time off my run, so that by itself has already helped out a lot and I credit that improvement primarily to this class."

Another popular aerobic class offered at the Fitness Center is Zumba. Zumba is an hour-long class that meshes several different dance and aerobic exercises performed to popular music.

According to Aaron Lomas, Cannon Fitness Center instructor, for those who want to sweat off inches while having a blast, Zumba could be beneficial. The instruction, ambiance and choreography are like a trip around the world and back.

"Zumba doesn't feel like exercise," said Lomas. "It's like a dance party! Zumba is for all ages and fitness levels, so come join the party."

For more information on Fitness Center classes, call 575-784-2466.