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How do I Start a College Workout?

B. Miller
B. Miller

Starting a college workout can be a great way to get some stress relief and keep the "freshman 15" weight gain at bay. In addition, it can be a great way to meet new people, improve body confidence, and improve overall health. It can be somewhat difficult to start a workout routine in a new place, however, so there are some tips to keep in mind when attempting to start a new college workout routine.

First, take advantage of any on-campus facilities offered. A number of colleges offer fitness centers right on campus that are free to students. These fitness centers typically offer benefits such as aerobic and weight training machines, running tracks, racquetball and basketball courts, and a swimming pool, among many other possibilities. Many fitness center are open at all hours, to allow you the flexibility to get a workout in even if you are in class and studying all day.

Some colleges offer on-site swimming facilities.
Some colleges offer on-site swimming facilities.

Even if your college campus does not provide a fitness center for students, you can still take advantage of campus resources to get a good college workout. Colleges typically have walking or biking paths that are well-lit and safe, and taking walks, jogs, or bike rides on these paths can be a great way to get a workout and relieve some stress by simply being outdoors.

Trying something new, like yoga, might be the best way to start a college workout.
Trying something new, like yoga, might be the best way to start a college workout.

Of course, there is more to starting a college workout than simply finding a place to exercise. Consider the type of exercise you like to do, as well as if you would prefer to exercise alone or with friends. College is a great time to try some different types of exercise; you might take a class in yoga, Pilates, kickboxing, or dance, among numerous other choices. Taking exercise classes and developing new interests is a great way to meet people, and can help you find a great college workout you will really enjoy.

Lifting weights is one way to boost fitness levels in college students.
Lifting weights is one way to boost fitness levels in college students.

In addition, it is helpful to plan workout times into your schedule, so you know you will be able to take classes and complete homework. Consider when you have the most energy, and whether you would prefer to exercise when you wake up in the morning, during an afternoon break, or after classes have completed at the end of the day. Planning a college workout so that it fits well into your schedule and preferences is the best way to ensure that you will continue to exercise, even if you become busy or stressed with schoolwork.

Discussion Comments

sobeit

College is really an easy place to stay fit. There are so many opportunities to get involved with sports you love and great for trying out new ones for the first time.

There was no gymnastics team at my university and I was devastated. But the cheerleading squad was being formed and trained by experts from the U of Florida and once I made the squad, it fulfilled that need in me to have gymnastics in my life. Our squad had men and women and the cheers were filled with challenging flips and stunts.

Other than cheering, I also took ballroom dance with a guy friend and we learned about six different types of dance and really enjoyed the process.

All to say that a college workout plan only needs to be whatever you enjoy doing whether it's golf, dancing, rowing, volleyball...it's all there. Just do something you love and you'll be better off than those kids who are making themselves jog because they're afraid to try something new.

ninetydegree

When I started college, my family was overseas and I was living in the dorms. I literally had to create a life for myself. Besides going to classes, I enjoyed a variety of sports that helped me avoid gaining that dreaded freshman 15.

College swimming workouts are nothing to sneeze at! I swam for two hours every day after class. This was exhausting but it really helped reduce stress. I also played tennis in the evenings just for fun with roommates and also racketball. All of this helped my mood, my attitude in general, and kept me really fit.

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    • Some colleges offer on-site swimming facilities.
      By: ikonoklast_hh
      Some colleges offer on-site swimming facilities.
    • Trying something new, like yoga, might be the best way to start a college workout.
      By: furmananna
      Trying something new, like yoga, might be the best way to start a college workout.
    • Lifting weights is one way to boost fitness levels in college students.
      By: Tijana
      Lifting weights is one way to boost fitness levels in college students.
    • Riding a bike can be a great way to get a workout.
      By: Diego Barbieri
      Riding a bike can be a great way to get a workout.