As university students, regular exercise is super important for our mental and physical well being as it improves our concentration and memory and can help reduce stress and anxiety. But it can be hard to find the motivation to get outside and be active while stressing about assignments and exams. So here are some helpful tips to make being active more fun!
Joining a Zumba class, or any other type of organised dance class, is a really fun way of getting active. Especially if you like dancing because you’ll forget you’re even exercising! And there are so many health benefits. It’s a great calorie burning activity, it boosts your heart health and helps endurance. It can also help reduce anxiety and stress, something a lot of university students struggle with.
Experiences are nearly always made better when shared with friends and that goes for being active too. Planning to exercise with a friend ensures you stay accountable, as you’re less likely to bail knowing it means cancelling on a friend. So you’re more likely to stick to your commitment of getting active. You’re also more likely to work harder when exercising with a friend as you can push each other to do better. Essentially, friends make exercise more fun and a key aspect to forming a lifestyle habit is enjoyment.
Going to the gym everyday can be a drag, so change up your routine by doing something different on the weekend. You could go for a hike, go rock climbing or try kayaking to name a few. Adding variety to your workout makes it more enjoyable and can stop you from getting stuck in a rut. It can refresh your mind and restore your motivation to be active. Plus, it’s always good to try something new and learn new things.
Most dog breeds need regular exercise, so taking your dog out for a walk or a play in the park can be a great motivator for us! There are many health benefits to walking but going for a walk by yourself may be the most boring form of physical activity. But add a furry, four legged playmate and it becomes a fun way to get active. Dogs also make excellent work out buddies because they don’t complain and they’ll never cancel on you!
Being part of a team sport is a fun and social way to get active. Not only is the exercise from playing a team sport good for our overall health, but you learn essential social skills like teamwork, communication and good sportsmanship. You don’t get the social benefits of team sport from a self-workout. It’s also really good fun, supporting your teammates and trying to win makes you forget you’re even exercising in the first place!
Ok so I know this one doesn’t actually provide health benefits, but buying some trendy activewear can be a great motivator for you to get active. If you’re someone who loves clothes and fashion, then you know how motivating a new outfit can be. So treat yourself to something nice and get moving!
Hopefully, these tips will inspire you to get active the next time you want to lay on the couch and watch Netflix. Exercise is so important for our well being, and while it can be hard that doesn’t mean it can’t be fun!
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