By Crystal Smith, Managing Editor
Amidst the hustle and bustle of college life, with classes, homework, and social events, physical fitness is something that is sometimes forgotten. Nonetheless, physical activity is essential to college students’ general health and intellectual achievement.
Frequent exercise has many advantages that go beyond simply keeping one physically fit, and can enhance all components of a student’s life.
Physical activity is crucial for preserving physical health, first. The body may suffer from an inactive lifestyle that frequently follows long study sessions or lecture sessions.
Frequent exercise helps counteract the negative effects of extended sitting, including weight gain, stiff muscles, and bad posture. Exercise also improves immunity, fortifies the cardiovascular system, and lowers the chance of chronic illnesses like diabetes, obesity, and heart diseases.
Moreover, working out has numerous physical advantages, but it is also essential for mental wellness. Academic demands, social obstacles, and transition to maturity can all contribute to mental strain during the demanding times of college life.
Exercise has been demonstrated to be an excellent stress reliever because it releases the body’s endorphins, which naturally elevate mood. Frequent exercise can improve sleep quality, lessen the signs of depression and anxiety, and improve psychological health in general.
“Whenever I’m feeling very overwhelmed or under the pressures of school, I try to partake in some sort of physical activity or attend the gym as it really allows me to clear my mind,” Lauren Cornish, a sophomore majoring in business management said.
Exercise also has a significant effect on academic performance and cognitive function. Regular physical activity has been repeatedly linked to improved concentration, memory, and problem-solving abilities in pupils. In addition, exercise improves cognitive function by increasing blood flow to the brain, which encourages the development of new brain cells.
Additionally, physical activity has been linked to improved academic achievement, with active students exhibiting higher grades and better retention of information.
It is not necessary to make exercising a frightening or time-consuming part of your collegiate regimen. Physical activity, even in tiny doses, has several advantages. Even small changes, such as using the stairs instead of the elevator, taking short breaks to stretch or walk between study sessions, or engaging in leisure sports or fitness programs, can have a big impact.
Furthermore, educational institutions have many opportunities to contribute to the development of a healthy and active campus community. Students can be encouraged here at Saint Leo to prioritize their health and fitness by utilizing our cutting-edge fitness center located in the Wellness Center, which provides a range of exercise classes and intramural sports.
In the end, making exercise a priority while in college is an investment in one’s success and happiness down the road. Students can improve their physical and mental health, lower stress levels, increase academic achievement, and improve their emotional well-being by making regular physical activity a part of their daily routine.
The next time you are tempted to forgo going to the gym in favor of another study session, keep in mind that working out is important for developing your intellect and realizing your academic potential as a college student, as well as for shaping your appearance!
