It’s no secret that exercise is important for your health, and it’s especially important for college students. Despite this, many students don’t get much physical activity, which can have a detrimental impact on their health and academic performance over time. Exercise is an affordable and accessible way to alleviate stress, boost your mood, and get in shape, which are all things that every college student would find beneficial. Still, with so many obligations, it can feel impossible to find the time. If you want to prioritize a a healthy lifestyle in college, read on for some top tips for staying fit as a busy college student.
How can busy college students stay fit?
If you’re still deciding which college you want to attend, and athletics and fitness mean a lot to you, you should discuss that with a college counselor during the college application process. Searching “college counseling near me” can give you some of the best options in your area. An admissions consultant or counselor has years of experience helping students get accepted to schools all across the country. Who else could know more about which campuses are ideal for students who like to stay active? No matter what it is that you want out of your college experience, a college counselor can ensure that you get it.
When you don’t have a ton of time to exercise as it is, you don’t want to have to skip the gym because you hurt yourself. Invest in the clothes, support products, and equipment that you need to be your most productive self. One thing every college athlete should consider is investing in a high quality arch insert. Arch support is essential if you want to minimize foot pain and discomfort during intense workouts. Foot problems can keep you off the field or out of the gym for weeks and worsen if left untreated. It’s always best to have your foot examined by a podiatrist to make sure there’s nothing wrong if you notice anything wrong.
There are also some simple lifestyle adjustments you can make in order to prioritize your physical fitness. There are many ways to fit exercise and physical activity into your schedule. If you’re willing to be a little flexible, you can find the time you need. Why not try jogging or biking to class instead of taking the bus? Don’t waste your breaks between classes either, try doing a few reps of a basic routine when you have a few minutes to spare and those short workout sessions will add up fast. Some people may tell you to cut back on socializing, but the smartest move is to recruit your friends and hang out together at the gym.
What else can you do to improve your health and wellness at school?
It’s no secret that college can be a stressful time. Between balancing classes, socializing, and working, anyone would be overwhelmed. When you add in problems like homesickness, anxiety, or depression, it’s not hard to see why so many students struggle with their mental health. If you think you may be in danger of having a mental health crisis, don’t hesitate to seek out counseling services. Your campus health center can usually provide recommendations for mental health services that are in the area if you want to work with a therapist.
Sleep is one of the most necessary things in our lives, and yet so many of us don’t get enough of it. This is especially true for college students, who are notorious for pulling all-nighters. This can have a major impact on your academic performance, as well as your overall health. When we don’t get enough sleep, we can experience problems with focus, concentration, decision-making, and memory. We’re also more likely to get sick, since sleep deprivation can weaken our immune system. It might seem smart to stay up and study, but you’ll be doing far more harm than good in the long run.
For college students, the benefits of exercise and fitness extend far beyond just staying in shape. Working out can release mood-boosting endorphins, reduce stress, and help you connect with other people on campus that have similar hobbies and interests. It’s not a stretch to say that exercise is one of the most valuable things that college students can do for their mental health, physical health, and academic performance. There are an infinite number of ways to get up and get active, you just need to decide which one works for you.
