Was the last form of cardio you did running away from your assignments? Is your only perspiration a result of getting anxious from having to tell your parents how many Domino’s pizzas you consumed first semester? Does speed walking from Buchanan to Forestry get your heart pumping a little bit too loudly?
Was your resolution to live a healthier, more active life, but you have no idea how to fit it in to your packed schedule? Follow these simple tips to find a way to make exercise work for you, instead of having to work for it.
(That’s only half true, you’ll still have to do the work; sorry no shortcuts here).
Wake Me up Before you Go-Go
Those endorphins that everyone’s always talking about? They do more than decide law cases (Legally Blonde ftw). Exercising before your classes is a great way to actually wake you up so you’re more attentive in lectures, instead of finally coming to halfway through the lecture.
Force a Friend
Everything’s less painful together! I think that’s how the saying goes, close enough? Also, if you make a friend go with you, you are much more likely to follow through on the commitment. So sign up for a Barre Fit (aka Barf It- it’s harder than it looks) or Spin class together!
Lunch break
Take advantage of having the beautiful Pacific Spirit Park at our back door and locker access at the Student Rec Centre by going for a run or walk during a class break. Getting some fresh air part way through the day can help you recharge and refocus for the afternoon.
While Studying
Yes, you will look like a nerd- but at least you will be a healthy nerd. And nothing says “don’t talk to me, gym rats” like headphones in, cue cards out, game face on. If bringing a pile of notes to the gym does not appeal to you, try doing some yoga poses or a set of push-ups to break up a long study sesh.
You do You
Find an activity you actually enjoy, no matter how silly you look. Not everyone is going to enjoy running 30 kms in one go or going to a Zumba class (#twoleftfeet), so try new things until you find one that sticks and gets you excited to get moving. And if that means you’re the guy at the gym who doesn’t really know what the heck they’re doing, you’re still doing better than sitting on the coach.
At first, it can be hard to fit in daily physical activity in to an already packed schedule. But after a couple weeks, it will become second nature. Not only will exercise improve your strength and energy, but it can help improve your mood and reduce stress. These simple tips can help make physical activity feel like less of a chore and actually follow that resolution you forgot you made.
*Picture courtesy of Google