Students How 2

For you, the college student who wants to learn to do everything better, easier or cheaper

In this issue:

•How to stay motivated and active in college

•How to graduate college, from a military perspective

•How to get through a boring assignment

How to stay motivated and active in college

by Caroline Worch

College students have a tough time balancing all of their responsibilities, especially when they factor in a social life, time to eat and an exercise routine. Many want to have a steady exercise schedule but cannot find the time or motivation to put it into action. Here are a some ways to stay active and make exercise a bigger part of your life.

Enjoy yourself

Find an activity that you enjoy that makes you stay active. Finding what you enjoy in college is a major step toward getting in shape.

Search for a sports club or try some new activities at the university gym. There are many options that your university offers to help keep you active.

Try to walk short distances instead of driving. It is always convenient and easy to drive everywhere, but walking is good exercise and you will save money on gas. It is an easy way to stay active without having to make up for too much time that could be used on school work. Go on a walk with a friend , walk to your favorite coffee shop or just around town. Also try taking the stairs instead of an elevator whenever you can.

The recreation center of most universities offer workout classes, a resistance room, yoga and personal training.

Habits

It generally takes two weeks to form a new habit. Tell yourself you will do some sort of activity, whether it be jogging or meditating, and make it a routine. An effective way to develop a good habit is to reward yourself for finding ways to stay active. For example, plang to buy a new pair of shoes or even schedule some downtime or something else you want after you have committed to an exercise activity for a period of time.

Scheduling and planning

Plan out your week. Plan a specific time to go to the gym every day. I have always needed structure, and scheduling time to go to the gym motivates me to make it happen.

Downloading a workout planning app on your phone or having an actual planner helps you stay motivated. Your phone has many apps you can download . Examples include Caliber and the Gym Workout Planner and Tracker.