5 ways to stay physically active this semester

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It's time for college! Have you thought about physical activity?

When students transition from high school to post-secondary education, they tend to be less physically active.

Staying physically active during your post-secondary experience will contribute to your well-being by enhancing:

• creativity and learning

• regulated sleep patterns

• concentration, memory, and attention

• mood and self-esteem

Local gyms can be expensive!

Before splurging or writing off fitness altogether, check out what your school has to offer.

Most campuses have a fitness & recreation center that offers free resources or memberships at student rates. They can include things like:

• a track

• a pool

• exercise equipment

• courts

An added bonus: using a gym close to your classes or dorm is a huge time saver!

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With a schedule packed with lectures, assignments, studying, and your social life, it can be tricky to find time for exercise.

Make a plan to stay on track!

• Write out your goals — this will help you stay focused. 📓

• Consider favorite activities —you're more likely to follow through if you enjoy what you're doing! 🧘🏾‍♀️

• Use your phone calendar — set reminders in your phone to exercise. 🗓

• Use a fitness app — organize your routine and track your workouts. 📱

• Be creative — find ways to make your social time physical, i.e. hiking with friends. 🥾

• Be flexible — overwhelmed with exams? Take a day or two off, or switch to light exercise on study breaks. 💃🏻

• Listen to your body — don't push yourself too hard! If you start feeling unwell, dial it down. 💪🏿

Exercising is easy to plan for, but can be hard to commit to and continue to do. Luckily, a buddy can help you. One of the biggest predictors of successful, persistent exercise is the support of other people.

Ask your roommate to join in or find a workout buddy at the gym or in a fitness group. If someone is waiting for you, you’ll be more likely to show up.

Some perks of having a buddy:

• You’ll be even more committed to your goals.

• You'll be less likely to get bored and quit.

• It will help you feel less stressed.

• You’ll push yourself to work harder.

Committing to an intramural sports team or fitness class is an easy way to stick to a schedule, hold yourself accountable, and stay motivated.

Intermural Sports

There are usually tons of different sports to choose from like dodgeball, basketball, ultimate frisbee, and even quidditch. Whatever your interests, there's a team for you to join! As a bonus, you'll meet a bunch of new people.

Fitness Classes

Post-secondary on-campus or virtual fitness classes might cost money but are usually priced for student budgets.

Classes could include Yoga, Zumba, Dance, or HIIT and vary in their levels of intensity.

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Practice working exercise into your day-to-day and move more!

• Throw on your runners and walk to class. Every step counts! Walking burns calories, improves muscle tone, and reduces stress.

• Climb stairs on-campus. Work your leg muscles and improve your cardiovascular fitness level.

• Bring your water bottle. Staying hydrated is the key to keep moving!

• Try Deskercises. If you find yourself sitting for long periods of time, take breaks and do a few exercises at your desk.

If you're craving physical activity this semester: