Keep moving
Remember to hydrate when you are working out. Palak Patel | Daily Trojan
Classes, extracurriculars, friends, sleep and then repeat. Amid the chaos of college life, fitting in a workout can seem like an impossible task. Making the trek to the gym is a hassle that many don’t have time for, but that doesn’t mean that physical fitness should be abandoned altogether. In fact, studies have shown that students who make the time to work out actually have more energy than those who don’t and require less sleep. Below are a few quick workouts that can help you stay active without eating up too much of your time.
Jump Roping
For most, jump ropes are regarded as little more than an elementary school pastime. However, the truth is that jump roping for just a few minutes a day will get your blood pumping and improve your cardiovascular fitness. Spend 20 minutes a day alternating between jump roping for three minutes, and speed-walking or jogging for two. The activity might wind you at first, but you’ll be surprised at how quickly your endurance builds.
Crunches
Crunches can help tone a variety of muscles in your abdominal region, while simultaneously burning stomach fat. Start by doing 20 crunches every time you step into your room and work your way up from there. You’ll be ready to rock that crop top before you know it — no tummy-tucking jeans needed!
Dance
This is my favorite method of exercising. Though an abundance of pre-choreographed dance workout routines are available, I recommend just blasting some of your favorite music and moving continuously for 20 minutes. In addition to being a great workout, dancing to your favorite songs without any sort of routine to follow can be therapeutic.
Yoga
Though counterintuitive, one of the best things to happen to yoga is YouTube. The amount of content available online is incredible, with channels such as Yoga with Adriene and Yoga House regularly uploading accessible and interactive workouts. One of the best ways to start your morning out refreshed and energized is by following one of these tutorials. After 15 minutes, you’ll find yourself in a state of exercise-induced nirvana, guaranteed to boost your mood and productivity.
Leg Lifts
This is a great workout for midterm season, when leaving your studying can feel positively sinful. While sitting at your desk, just extend one leg in front of you and hold it straight for as long as you can. Afterward, switch to the other. Repeating this a few times while you study is an amazing way to keep your lower body toned even when you don’t have time to hit the gym.
When papers and projects pile up, instead of abandoning exercising all together, take the time to try out these short workouts. You can squeeze them into your schedule easily, and knowing that you’re taking the time to care for your body can help you feel less stressed and better prepared to tackle whatever challenge college throws at you.