If you have not already, many of you will soon pack up your belongings, load up your cars and head off to school; some returning, while others begin a new chapter in their lives. As you leave the bliss of summer behind, many of you will also be leaving your home gyms, familiar running roots, and beloved exercise classes. Yet, as your past work out regiment slowly disappears into the rear mirror, in front of you lies not only a brand new semester but also new fitness opportunities. Instead of letting all of that hard work you put in during the summer go to waste, let us help you with these five tips.
1. Campus Runs
Whether you are new to the school or a returning vet, taking a run around a campus is a good way to get your cardio in, as well as become more familiar with the campus; who knows, maybe you will even find something new. Many schools have running clubs, which can be a good way to meet new friends, get involved on campus, and gain a support system to help keep you motivated.
2. Fitness Center
Every university, no matter how big or how small, has some type of fitness center. While some of the bigger schools possess massive facilities, filled with a swimming pool, basketball courts, and state of the art fitness equipment, others may only have a small room full of free weights and a treadmill. Regardless of your fitness center, having access to some equipment is better than having no equipment! Take full advantage of these gyms, because while they are not entirely free (thank you expensive college tuition), they do provide you with a place where you and your friends can work out together, and as the workload of school increases, it allows an outlet for stress.
3. On Campus Fitness Classes
Upset you are going to leave your group fitness class behind as you leave for school? Well do not fret, because main schools offer on campus fitness classes. From cardio kick boxing to yoga, Zumba, to bar classes; depending on your school, you have the opportunity to participate in many types of group fitness classes, without having to invest in any equipment (courtesy again to the those college bills). These classes are typically taught by knowledgeable students and staff, and can be a great way to meet new friends and work out with old ones. Although these classes may not be the same as the ones you are leaving behind, you have nothing to lose by trying one and who knows maybe you will find something you really like.
4. Intramural Sports
For some, college is an opportunity to continue the sports that they have loved since they were a kid and for others it is sports that give them the opportunity to attend college, but for most of us it is an end of our scholastic sports career. Intramural sports in a way can offer you the opportunity to continue your love for competitive sports on campus against your peers. Form a team with your friends and get out to play sports such as soccer and volleyball. Stay active and have fun.
5. Fitness Clubs
Although these may seem very similar to both on campus fitness classes and intramural sports, I can assure you that they are very different. While some prefer long runs and countless hours lifting weights as a way to achieve their fitness needs, others prefer activities that are both physically challenging, fun, and to an extent don’t even feel like working out. Dance clubs, rock climbing clubs, various martial arts clubs, and several competitive sports clubs such as Rugby and Ultimate Frisbee are just some of the clubs you might find on your campus. Unlike some of the more academic clubs that you typically find on campus, these clubs can allow for you to challenge your muscles in a way they have never been challenged before, stay active, and make friends with others who share similar interests.
