Staying Fit on Campus

College students have a lot going against them when it comes to staying healthy. There’s the stress of coursework and packed schedules. And there’s that new-found independence, which can take some unhealthy forms — think all-you-can-eat meal plans and pulling all-nighters. Fortunately, colleges and universities are working hard to help their students get in shape and stay that way. This guide gives information and advice on achieving and maintaining good health and fitness throughout college – and beyond.

How Much Exercise do College Students Need?

A balanced, healthy fitness routine for any adult includes two key elements: Cardio exercise and strength training. And for many, regular stretching is an essential part of their regime. Below are recommendations for how much exercise college students need.

Please note: You should always check with your doctor before starting any new fitness routine. These are general recommendations, but they don’t take into account any health conditions or concerns you may have.

CARDIOSTRENGTH TRAININGSTRETCHING

What it is

Also known as aerobic exercise, this is any type of physical activity that uses large muscle groups, like those in the legs, in a repetitive way that increases the heart rate.

What it does for you

Among many other benefits, cardio strengthens your heart and lungs, increases your metabolism, helps you lose weight, increases bone density, reduces fatigue, helps control blood sugar and improves HDL (good) cholesterol levels. It also improves thinking and memory, fights depression and anxiety, and helps you sleep better.

How often you should do it
A minimum of 2 hours and 30 minutes a week of moderate-intensity aerobic activity is recommended by the CDC. Or 1 hour and 15 minutes of vigorous-intensity exercise.

Example exercises

Moderate-intensity activities include walking briskly (a treadmill is an option), low-impact aerobics, dancing, doubles tennis, water aerobics and bicycling (under 10 miles-per-hour). Vigorous-intensity activities include swimming laps, running or jogging, singles tennis, hiking uphill (with weight) and bicycling (10 miles-per-hour or faster).

Nutrition in College

Read our guide for tips, resources & recipes to help busy students fight the freshman 15

How to Get in Shape on Campus

College campuses often have a variety of resources available to help students get and stay healthy. Before you splurge on a pricey gym membership, check out what your school has to offer. And if working out in a gym isn’t your thing, there’s an abundance of exercise routines you can do in the privacy of your dorm room.

On Campus Resources to Use

Your campus likely features a package of services and facilities designed to make staying in shape as simple and fun as possible.

Fitness & Recreation Centers

Most college campuses feature some kind of recreation center for its students. Many have facilities that rival the most up-to-date gym chains—check out the facilities offered by Colorado State University. But even campuses with more modest offerings often have a track, pool or basic gym that can be taken advantage of.

Health & Nutrition Centers

Health and nutrition centers and programs are also a trending feature on college campuses. They’re often associated with a school’s medical center or health services academic department, and sometimes offer programs to both their student body and the surrounding community. A good example is the University Health Center at the University of Georgia, whose nutrition services program includes individual nutrition counseling, peer nutrition educators, cooking classes and more.

Fitness Classes

Colleges routinely offer a wide range of fitness classes to students which can be taken either free with a rec center membership or at an additional small cost. Typical class offerings include cardio, strength training, cycling, yoga, dance, Pilates and Zumba.

Read more https://www.affordablecollegesonline.org/college-resource-center/staying-fit-on-campus/