How to Stay Active as a College Student
Posted: January 25, 2024 | Author: Abbie Cochrane | Read Time: 3 minutes
While the “Freshman Fifteen” may be a myth, getting in exercise while you’re at school can help manage the stress that comes with being a college student. A study done by the National Institutes of Health found that students who commit to exercising have noticed a significant boost in their grades and their mood. This is because exercising can stimulate brain cell development, and improve memory and information retention. It can also increase focus and concentration. Not to mention that it can be fun and it’s good for you!
Here are different ways for students to get in their exercise while going to college:
Hit the Gym
For some students, a gym membership is a necessity. There are several gyms in Cedar City that students can get passes to. Contrarily, some students like the workout without the commitment of a membership. Southern Utah University has several means by which students can exercise on campus in the P.E. Building.
The Fitness Center provides opportunities for students to work out individually or take a class and is open weekdays from 6 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. and 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. on Saturdays during the fall and spring semesters. Students can utilize equipment ranging from top-notch weightlifting machines to a cardio area with treadmills, bikes and more. Hours for the summer semester vary. Prices and available classes can be found online.
The Aquatic Center is available for free to students (with their student ID). In addition to hosting various aquatic clubs and teams, the Center offers classes as well. Their hours during the fall and spring semesters are Monday - Friday from 6 a.m. to 11a.m. & 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., as well as 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturdays.
Intramural sports at SUU are a great way for students to get active without the stress of playing professionally, whilst simultaneously relieving stress and having fun! Intramurals are broken up by season, with opportunities to play all year round.
Get Outside
Boasting all four seasons, there are lots of ways to get in some fun exercise right in SUU’s backyard. Here are some popular outdoor activities students can enjoy during each season.
Winter
- Ski / Snowboard at Brian Head Resort.
- Snowshoeing around the mountains.
- Cross-country skiing.
- Gather your friends and have a snowball fight.
- Go sledding. Hiking back up the hill with your sled is an exercise in disguise.
Spring
- Hike around the beautiful red rock canyons as spring blossoms on the mountainside. Just be careful of any lingering snow and ice.
Summer
- Hike some more! Head down to St. George to explore the sand dunes and the slot canyons.
- Take a lake day! Watersports are a fun way to exercise and get in nature. If that’s not something that piques your interest, swimming is a great way to beat the heat.
Fall
- Visit local national monuments and parks to watch the leaves change.
- Walk around campus and show off your T-Bird Nation spirit!
Have a Game Day
Get your friends together on the basketball court, soccer field, golfing green or wherever to have a fun game day. Students have access to pickleball and tennis courts when the weather permits.
Work Out at Home
The Internet is a great place for students to find fun workout videos that they can do in the comfort of their apartment or dorm room. Many YouTube workout videos often don’t require equipment and are relatively short to watch. Some creators also have weeks-long workout plans for viewers to follow, or classes they can take.
Regardless of how you choose to exercise during college, there are so many great options at your disposal! Where college is such a mental sport, it’s important to get your body moving as well to help disperse stress and to keep you feeling healthy and happy. Learn more about ways to get moving in college – and don’t forget to have fun!
Tags: Cedar City Campus Student CurStu Campus Resources Student Life
