"Exercise"... probably on the list of least favorite words for college students.
Lack of time, motivation, knowledge... the list goes on as to why working out is not prioritized during your time in college.
Did you know that the Department of Health and Human services recommends getting 2.5 hours of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise, 1.25 hours of high-intensity aerobic exercise and 2 hours of muscle-strengthening training per week?
Meeting the recommended 6 hours a week can do wonders for your body. It can keep your heart healthy, lower your risk for certain diseases, lower your cholesterol level, promote a lower body mass index (BMI) and much more.
Finding 6 hours a week to set aside for exercise can be tough, but getting exercise is more than just going to a gym. Read below for some tips and suggestions for completing these 6 hours successfully.
Some tips to help quit putting off workouts...
Write it down. Schedule time to work out. Make a commitment and hold yourself accountable.
Find a buddy. Find somebody who will hold you accountable and will encourage you throughout the process.
Form a habit. Forming a habit can take time, but it will become easier once you make it a habit. You will want to work out because of how much better your body feels.
Some examples of the different types of exercises...
Moderate-intensity Aerobic Exercises
Walk to class. If the distance is short enough, consider walking to class over driving.
Opt for the stairs over the elevator. Walking up the stairs raises the heart and engages the muscles of the legs.
Take a leisurely bike ride. Get out and enjoy nature.This is great for the body and the mind.
High-Intensity Aerobic Exercises
Go for a run. If you aren't a runner, consider starting with interval training and working up to longer distances. Run harder for shorter periods of time to get the heart rate up.
Try a HIIT (high intensity interval training) workout. These workouts are short but effective.
Muscle-strengthening training (weights not required)
Push-ups. These can be modified to accommodate different strength levels.
Squats. Body weight squats will work your glutes and quads.
Planks. Having a strong core is important to physical health. Start holding for a short amount of time and gradually increase the increments over time.
*Click on the hyperlinks throughout the article for further explanations and information*
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