ALBANY, Ga. (WALB) -Albany State University is hosting free mental health boxing classes, giving students a hands-on way to cope with stress while highlighting mental wellness during Black History Month.

The initiative began with a free kickboxing class designed to help students release stress. After strong participation and positive feedback, organizers expanded the effort into ongoing boxing sessions.

Connecting Black history and mental health

Organizers say the focus goes beyond fitness. They are using the space to connect conversations about Black history and resilience with the importance of prioritizing mental health, noting that mental health has historically carried stigma or been overlooked in many Black communities.

Event organizer Ja’Quan Riggins said the program holds personal significance.

“I’m so jittery right now. Like, just just setting up, man. I hope that y’all can see the excitement in my bones and my body, man. This is literally like my dream come true. Being able to give back to the people that matter the most, the youngers. I love to do, man. It’s about the people. It’s about the people I’m impacting. That’s what it’s about,” Riggins said.

Riggins told WALB that the growth from the first class to now shows how much students value these opportunities. He said he hopes continued turnout sends a message that mental wellness matters and that taking care of the mind is as important as taking care of the body.

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