FreshStart Series

Kick off 2026 with practical, motivating classes to help you achieve your New Year’s resolutions
In this Section

Held on UW-Stout’s beautiful campus, the FreshStart Series is a budget- and schedule-friendly program offering four 2-hour classes that introduce essential strategies in fitness, financial wellness, meal planning and mindfulness. 

Register for one class or take advantage of a special series price to attend all four! 
Discounts are also available for UW-Stout alumni, faculty and staff. 

You will gain knowledge and skills from expert instructors that you can immediately use to enhance your daily routines, build sustainable habits, and improve your overall well-being throughout the year. Check back soon for links to registration!

What will you gain?

Image of a man at a desk working on a budget with the year "2026" above
Money Matters Made Simple: A Financial Reset for 2026

January 10, 2026, 10 am - noon

  • Clarify and define your personal financial and savings goals in a way that guides your decision-making
  • Explore 4 practical budgeting strategies and determine which approach best fits your lifestyle and financial needs
  • Develop a personalized budget based on your income and learned how to adjust it so it aligns with your short- and long-term financial goals
Image of a woman doing yoga with the year "2026" above
Mindful Movement: Build Your Strength in 2026 

January 2026, 10 am - noon

  • Examine the history and principles of Pilates and how to complete a self-assessment
  • Identify what to discuss with your doctor or trainer to integrate Pilates into your fitness routine
  • Practice a series of Pilates exercises, under the guidance of the instructor, so that you can replicate them at home 
Image of a woman sitting in meditation with the year "2026" above
Reflect and Reset: A Mindfulness Journey into 2026 

January 2026, 10 am - noon

  • Discuss mindfulness, breathing techniques, meditation and your senses
  • Participate in a guided meditation, reflecting on 2025 and intention-setting for 2026
  • Prepare a personal gratitude jar to take with you
Image of a man in a kitchen prepping a salad with the year "2026" above
Stress-Free Meal Planning: Prep-Along to Better Habits in 2026

January 2026, 10 am - noon

  • Examine different meal-prepping styles and meal-planning strategies
  • Identify smart-shopping essentials and discuss prep and storage basics
  • Experience a healthy meal-prep demo and taste the results! 

Who should enroll?

These classes are open to adults (18+). We particularly welcome community members to our campus! We are also happy to offer a discount to UW-Stout alumni, students and staff. For the fitness class, participants should be able to comfortably get down on the floor and get back up again. Please see information on accommodations lower on this page.

Who are your instructors?

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Andrea Meidl

Andrea Meidl is the owner and founder of Authentic Core Pilates, located in Eau Claire, Wisconsin. She has been practicing Pilates for eight years and teaching for six. Her Comprehensive Certification through Peak Pilates involved 525 hours of training. With 22 years as a massage therapist, Andrea has a deep understanding of the body. She enjoys blending her massage experience with Pilates, observing movement, imbalances, and strengths. She is committed to lifelong learning and grateful for the opportunity to explore this through Pilates.

Pilates is for everyone, whether you're managing health issues or seeking a challenge. It's a fantastic way to gain strength, stability, flexibility, and stamina. The Pilates community is welcoming and encouraging, creating a supportive, non-judgmental environment.

Disability Accommodations

UW-Stout Continuing Education & Conferences welcomes individuals with disabilities and individualized needs. To request accommodations, please contact us at continuinged@uwstout.edu or 715-232-2793. While we encourage requests at least two weeks in advance, we will make every effort to accommodate those made closer to the program date. All requests are confidential.

The Universities of Wisconsin is an EEO/Affirmative Action employer and complies with Title IX and ADA requirements, offering equal opportunities in employment and programming.

Payment & Cancellation Policy

Payment Policy
Payment is due by the start of your course, training, or event. To ensure your spot is reserved, please complete payment or make arrangements with the university in advance.

Cancellation Policy
If your plans change, you’re welcome to substitute another participant at no extra charge. Otherwise, refunds are processed as follows:

  • Cancellations more than 14 days before the start date:
    Full refund.
  • Cancellations 14 days or fewer before the start date:
    An administrative fee of 3% of the registration cost plus $5 will be deducted from your refund.
  • If you are registered and do not attend:
    You are responsible for the full registration fee.

If the university must cancel a program, you’ll receive a full refund.

Contact Us
If you have any questions or concerns, please reach out to us at continuinged@uwstout.edu or 715-232-2793. We’re here to help and may be able to make special accommodations on a case-by-case basis.