| Healthy
living tips for college students on the go: Quick and
easy exercise
By Heather Maile
January 25, 2008 | Who wants to put on that "Freshman
15" during the college experience?
College students spend a lot of time in the classroom
and also studying on their own, this results in a lot
of sitting. I've come up with some quick and easy things
that we all can do to get our heart rates up! I know
how it is to be on a college budget, most of us cannot
afford a fancy gym membership.
To start off, a few things that I would suggest while
up on campus would be:
• Take the stairs instead of the elevator whenever
possible.
• Take advantage of the campus facilities, registered
students can use the recreation facilities at no additional
cost. Play a game of basketball, racquetball, take a
swim or do whatever you desire. This makes for a fun
date or quick break with a roommate!
• Sign up for an intramural sport. These are
very inexpensive and a fun way to get some needed exercise!
While you are home studying a few things that you
can do to break up the monotony are:
• Get up and jump rope to one of your favorite
songs all the way through.
• Purchase some dumbbell weights or you can
use canned food, and do some lunges. Alternate your
feet and do it until it burns, and then do ten more!
You'll notice the more often you do this, the more you'll
be able to do. Here is a link to explain lunges a little
more.
• Abdominal crunches will never hurt you! Try
different varieties to target different muscle groups.
For more information about different abdominal exercise
suggestions click here.
• Do some dips on a chair. Face away from the
chair and put your hands on the corners, dip down keeping
your butt and legs tight. Again, like the lunges, do
it until your arms are burning and then try a few more!
Also, for your arms try some classic push-ups. Here
is a link with several varieties to choose from.
• Get out and go for a walk, jog, or run! It
will feel good to get a dose of fresh air, just remember
to wear appropriate clothing for whatever weather conditions
you are in.
I think it is important to remember that you are the
only one that knows your body's limits. Don't over do
it if you haven't exercised for a while. Start out with
the basics and it will get easier. Also, setting goals
can be a very effective way to measure your progress.
I hope that these are helpful and good luck with your
exercising goals! Most importantly, anything is better
than nothing…don't give up!
MS
MS |
