As the evenings begin to draw darker and temperatures drop, it can be easy to let physical activity take a backseat during the winter exam season. Finding the time and motivation to exercise can present a great challenge. However, maintaining an active lifestyle during this time is crucial not only for physical health but also for mental wellbeing and academic performance.
A study conducted by University College London found that students who exercise for at least thirty minutes, three times a week are more likely to experience lower levels of stress and anxiety, leading to improved focus, memory, and overall academic achievement, compared to inactive students. With this in mind, here are three effective and enjoyable ways that can help you stay active and boost your productivity during this demanding period:
1) Parkrun
As a self-proclaimed parkrun fanatic, having taken part in almost one hundred events, I could not recommend this activity enough! If you are unfamiliar with the concept, parkrun is a free, weekly, community-led, 5km running event that takes place every Saturday morning at 9am in various places across the UK and abroad. The Cardiff Parkrun takes place in the magnificent Bute Park, which offers a lovely scenic running route. Despite the heavy running connotation, parkrun is an event for all abilities! Whether you choose to walk, jog, or run, you will be supported by a wonderful group of volunteers and fellow Parkrunners, cheering you on every step of the way. So, set your alarm, wrap up warm, and go give it a go! It truly is one of the most perfect ways to kickstart your Saturday on the right foot.
2) At-Home Workouts
If the 9am parkrun wake-up call does not sound the least bit appealing, at-home workouts might be a better suit for you. Fortunately, the health and fitness industry’s explosion on social media in recent years, coupled with the viral at-home workout trend during the COVID-19 pandemic, has resulted in an endless variety of free at-home workout videos readily available at your fingertips. From the comfort of your own home, you can complete your thirty minutes of physical activity a day, hassle free, with the possibility of incorporating a variety of different exercises to make it more interesting. What’s not to love?
3) Workout with a Friend
If self-motivation is your biggest struggle, finding a friend to work out with can make all the difference. Having a workout partner can help you stay consistent with your exercise routine as it provides someone to hold you accountable during days when you might otherwise skip a workout. Knowing that someone is counting on you to show up can provide the extra push you need to stick to your goals. Additionally, whether you attend a fitness class, or simply go for a walk, the social aspect of exercising with a friend can help make physical activity feel less like a chore. Instead, the experience can become quite enjoyable and something you look forward to.
By integrating just one of these simple, fun ways to stay active into your routine, you can ensure that you’re taking care of both your body and mind during exam season, helping you perform at your best. Physical activity truly is the key to productivity.