The benefits of exercise for students
We all know that exercising regularly is good for our health - but did you know it can also impact different aspects of student life?
With lifestyle changes, moving out of home, making new friends, partying and studying, becoming a student can be a big adjustment. But, from setting up a new routine to making friends, getting active regularly can help you settle into student life.
Plus, the way that exercise can boost your focus and concentration can make you a better student academically.
But how exactly does exercise make you a better student?
The benefits of exercising and fitness for students
With regular exercise, many students feel less stressed, more energised and have improved memory and cognitive performance. Let’s take a closer look at some of the main benefits of getting active:
Reduced your stress levels
With studying, making friends and living in a new place, student life is stressful! Thankfully, working out regularly can help you stay on top of your stress and keep you from feeling too overwhelmed. When we’re stressed, our body releases chemicals (hormones) like adrenaline and cortisol. These hormones trigger our ‘fight or flight’ response and can leave you feeling anxious. Exercising can reduce the levels of these hormones in your body, helping keep your stress in check.
As well as reducing levels of stress hormones, exercise increases your endorphin levels - the hormone responsible for feelings of happiness and wellbeing - boosting your overall mood.
Improved concentration
Doing any kind of intense physical activity - things like HIIT or Group Cycle that really raise your heart rate - will get your blood pumping. The increased blood and oxygen flow from working out causes the neurons in your brain to fire up, promoting cell growth which can help you focus and concentrate when studying. Having a student-friendly workout routine that includes just 20 minutes of intense exercise before a study session could make a real difference!
Better sleep
A good night’s sleep is a powerful thing, helping you feel more energised, more focused and boosting your mood overall. Regularly exercising can improve your sleep quality, helping you get to sleep faster and sleep deeper overall. All of this will set you up well for a day of studying, meeting new friends and whatever else you’re getting up to on campus.
Wider social circle
One of the most intimidating things about starting university can be the fact that you’re in a new place and don’t know anyone. Even if you’re studying with friends from school, you may not be living together or on the same courses. So, taking part in sports clubs, group fitness classes for students or even going to the gym at the same time every week can be great for meeting new people and broadening your social circle.
Some popular activities
Fitness Classes
Staying motivated can always be a challenge, but with a wide variety of fitness classes available across our Better leisure centres you'll find the perfect way to keep active.
Gym Workout
Whether you’re taking the first steps on your fitness journey or you’re looking to stay in shape, you’ll find everything you need in your local Better gym.
Swimming
Swimming is a great all-round exercise, working almost every muscle in your body without putting stress on your joints. It’s a perfect, low-impact way to get active, whatever your fitness level.
Yoga
Embrace the flow of natural body movements to develop strength, flexibility and a peaceful state of mind with our variety of yoga sessions that will help you feel better inside and out.
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