How Students Can Stay Active and Healthy During Busy School Years

If you are a student, you know that the list of things you need to achieve in a day – assignments to be completed, tests to be studied for, and a social life to be maintained – leaves you exhausted. But even the smallest adjustments to your daily routine can make a huge difference in how you feel. These tips will help you stay active and healthy, even when you’re running around trying to keep up with the busiest times of the school year.

1. Make Exercise Part of Your Routine

As we start to feel the crunch of school schedules, it is easy to allow exercise to slip. And yet, exercise is integral to our physical and mental health. The best way to stay physically active is to treat it like a regular necessity, such as brushing your teeth or eating lunch. Even 20 minutes or so a day can make a difference. Find something you like to do – running, yoga, or just dancing in your dorm room – and stick to it. You don’t have to spend hours at the gym. A workout squeezed between study sessions can boost energy and help you focus. 

2. Take Active Breaks During Study Sessions

Long study hours can deplete your energy reserves and leave you feeling lethargic. Personal energy breaks into your study schedule can help keep your body moving and recharge your batteries. Stretch, take a short walk, or do a few jumping jacks. These little bits of movement can help reset your brain and get you back on track when you head back to your books. You can also use a custom coursework writing service online to give you an extended break from your studies. You can use this free time to rest and regulate yourself in preparation for your next school day.

3. Prioritize Sleep

Getting enough sleep is essential for staying healthy. Sleep helps your body recover and increases cognitive function, which is necessary for academic success. Make sleep a priority by going to bed early each night, even if it’s difficult. Aim to get 7-9 hours of sleep per night, and avoid screens at least an hour before bed to allow your mind to relax. 

4. Stay Hydrated

Sometimes, it is easy to forget to drink water, especially when you are in school. However, it is very important that you stay hydrated so that you don’t feel tired during the day. If you do not drink enough water, you can become dehydrated. This can make you feel tired, get a headache, and have trouble focusing on your schoolwork. Carry a refillable water bottle with you all the time and take a sip every now and again. Plain water might not be your thing, so add a slice of lemon or cucumber.

5. Choose Healthy Snacks

As deadlines loom, it’s tempting to reach for sugary snacks and energy drinks. But quick fixes often lead to energy crashes later. Better alternatives are healthier snacks that provide more sustained energy.

Stock up on:

• Fruits: Apples, bananas, and berries are great for quick energy.
• Nuts: Almonds or walnuts are packed with protein.
• Greek yogurt: A filling option with probiotics to keep your gut happy.
• Sugar-free cereal: It makes for a delicious yet healthy breakfast or snack.

Not only do they keep your brain and body fortified, but these snacks help fuel your brain for better focus. 

6. Walk or Bike to Class

If you have the time, walking or biking to class is an easy way to stay active throughout your day without setting aside extra time for exercise. This activity also doubles as a stress-buster: getting out into some fresh air and moving your body has positive effects and can clear your mind before you enter your class. Moreover, getting to work on foot or by bike will allow you to harness the benefits of natural light, which is critical to maintaining a positive mood (especially during those seemingly endless winter days). 

7. Use Fitness Apps for Motivation

It can be difficult to keep motivated to exercise, especially when you have a busy schedule. There are plenty of free fitness apps, like FitOn, Nike Training Club, etc, that provide workout routines for any schedule. These apps could also help you track your progress, set goals, and keep you motivated. Some apps even have community features where you can talk with other students and share your fitness experience, making it more interesting.

Small Changes, Big Impact

When you’re in school, you don’t need to make gigantic changes to feel better and stay healthy. The key is to make small changes. It’s all about balance – finding ways to keep your body moving and your mind calm, when you’re busy and on the go. This way, you’ll be ready to take on the school day with energy and enthusiasm!