The life of a college student can be rough; Sometimes a break is necessary and well-deserved.
Classes need to be attended, essays need to be written and shifts need to be worked. Sports can provide an avenue away from work and the stress that comes with it.
With exercise, minds can relax, endorphins can be released and friends can be found.
According to the ResourcestoRecover, physical activity in any form has significant benefits for college students, including:
- Developing a healthy regular exercise pattern that will improve how the body manages dips in energy. This comes in useful when pushing through those final minutes of an exam. When the body is accustomed to giving a little extra, you can beat the fatigue and stay focused until the clock runs down.
- Exercise can release “happy hormones” and chemicals like dopamine and serotonin. This can give bodies an energy boost.
- Staying active can help brain development. During exercise, proteins, such as myelin, are released into the bloodstream by the nervous system. This can increase memory, making it easier to recall information from classes and lectures.
- It can boost a student’s ability to concentrate as blood is forced to flow around the body faster, stimulating certain parts of the brain.
- Regular movement can help to reduce stress and mild cases of depression as it can regulate fluctuations in mood.
- Working out or playing sports with others can help students form great social connections around campus, letting them stay connected throughout their college experience.
However, I am not going to pretend that finding the time to stay active each day is going to be easy.
It’s easier to scroll on the phone during a break or drink coffee for a boost,ut regular exercise unequivocally has more long-term benefits.
Below is a list of way to stay active during the semester:
- Walk or cycle around campus instead of taking the shuttle (it’s as simple as that!)
- Compete in intramural sports leagues (basketball, volleyball, flag football etc.)
- Use the equipment and facilities at the rec center
- Join a fitness, dance or yoga class at the rec center
- Go rock-climbing at the SOLE center
- Take a trip to the mountains at the weekend and go skiing/snowboarding
Regardless of what it is, find something enjoyable and start slow.
Rushing into something active immediately can be overwhelming, so it’s best to set targets and make steady progress towards being a more active student.
Photo by Arek Adeoye on Unsplash.