Fitting in Physical Activity at College or University

Healthy, active students are more productive and attentive in class – and feel better, too. Here are some ideas for getting more activity into your day:

Active Transport

• Get off the bus or park your car a few blocks away and walk the extra distance, with a friend.
  
• Ride your bike to campus a few times a week. Remember your helmet / safety gear.
  

Active Student

• Take the stairs – it’s amazing how much activity they add to your day.
  
• Take advantage of on-campus recreational facilities.
  
• Walk across campus to another building or to attend a study group.
  
• Walk to the coffee shop to meet a friend.
  
• Be active in your spare time. Swim, cycle, jog, play games or work out by yourself or with a friend.
  
• Join a club or recreational league. It’s a great way to meet new people.
  
• While studying at home, sit on an exercise ball. It’ll help to tone your core muscles and improve your posture.
  
• Take stretch and movement breaks from your studies every hour. Try at your desk stretches or activities.
  
• Participate in community events and challenges on campus.
• Walking study groups.

Even climbing two flights of stairs per day can lead to approximately 2.7 kg of weight loss over one year.

 

Links:

Canada's Physical Activity Guide to Healthy Active Living (PDF)