Many people are guilty of saying, “I don’t have time to go to the gym,” or, “I don’t want to go to the gym alone!” However, getting fit is easier than you think, and it only requires a few lifestyle changes.
First off, it’s important to set a schedule to find time for exercise. Find the perfect time to head over to the gym, whether it is in the morning, right after your classes end for the day, or in between classes. Keep track of your exercise in a journal, which will help keep you motivated as well. If you’re uncomfortable going to the gym alone, find a gym buddy whether you ask a friend or just an acquaintance from class. Exercising is actually a great way to bond and make a friend or two!
There are plenty of ways to get fit right here on campus. This fall, take a stroll and appreciate the beauty that engulfs our lovely university. Monmouth’s fitness center, located in the OceanFirst Bank Center, is free to all staff and students and can be utilized for strength, cardio, and flexibility exercises, to name a few. You can even sign up for group fitness classes, such as yoga and kickboxing, on the “Monmouth Recreation” app.
You can always take up an activity off campus to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Freshman animation student Michael Gatta has taken up a great activity to stay fit. He said, “I exercise by fencing with my friends. It’s really beneficial because it’s fun and a great way to stay healthy.” It’s important to have fun while exercising, so grab a few friends and find an activity you all enjoy!
If you find a sport you excel at, you can always join an intramural team on campus! Monmouth University offers a vast selection of intramural sports such as volleyball, tennis, basketball, and softball. You can participate in these intramurals competitively or recreationally. If you’re interested in an intramural sport, keep an eye out for the registration dates!
Running is just one of the many fitness options you can pursue. Freshman biology student Samantha Peragino shared, “I run because it makes me feel good about myself. It helps me with my anxiety and is a great stress reliever.” It is no secret that exercise elevates your mood and helps reduce stress and anxiety. Having a healthy mind is the first step to maintaining a healthy body. No matter what exercise you pursue, just make sure to get your heart pumping!
Adjunct professor of Health and Physical Education, Nancy Cizin, explained the importance of exercising and eating right. She stated that exercise can, “ward off type two diabetes, increase blood flow, and improve sleep.” She also said that, “natural foods such as fruits, vegetables, and those high in fiber can maintain both mental and physical health.”
Next time you’re grabbing something to eat to refuel your body, think twice about your food options and go with something that will improve your health. If you’re in the student center, stop by Roots, where you can customize a salad to your liking. Or, if you’re planning to grab something to eat in the dining hall, sushi is always a great healthy choice.
As Professor Cizin mentioned, getting a good night’s sleep is an important aspect of maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Many college students tend to underestimate the importance of sleep. Sometimes it’s necessary to pull an all-nighter in order to finish that five-page essay for English class, but try to catch up on sleep as much as possible. Not only does it improve physical health, but it also improves memory and concentration, thus helping you succeed academically.
There is no better way to boost your immune system than exercising and eating healthy, especially since flu season is quickly approaching. You may not want to skip the gym anymore when you consider the many health benefits that come with exercising!
PHOTO TAKEN BY Campbell Lee
