by Debra Menager

Created on: August 27, 2009   Last Updated: September 08, 2009

Exercise: we all know we need to do it. When we do, we feel (and look) better. But with busy days and weeks, college may leave little time for routine workouts.

Anyone familiar with the fabled freshman fifteen knows its cause: not just dorm food, or too much junk food and partying (although these may add to it). It's time. Too much time sitting in classes and studying, too little time in physical activity, did not burn off those extra calories. Starting college, even previously active people drop old exercise routines that don't fit new college schedules.

Balancing what we want to do and what we need to do, a lot of work and a bit of fun, little extra time or excess energy may be left. A good excuse for not maintaining a regular routine, as a reason it's not good enough. Those who exercise more seem to be more efficient. They are. Exercise helps us think better and sleep deeper sooner (more effective at two aspects that eat huge chunks of time). Time is actually a good reason to exercise.

Analyze your schedule. Look for bits of time (it doesn't need to be large chunks) where you aren't in class, at work, or committed to a group project. If each day varies, consider that particular day. Exercise does not need to be a regular routine. Just do something that makes you move. Add little bits into each day. Include people and activities that you enjoy, fitting them in whenever precious little moments appear.

Here are a few suggestions.

1. Walk or bike between classes instead of taking a tram, or get off early and hike part way.

If you leave a few minutes early, you can explore alternate routes. Take different paths depending on how much time you can spare. Including a few hills and stairs along your route will add cardio conditioning, and strengthen your leg and core muscles along with your heart and lungs.

2. Don't just stand or sit when you reach where you are going.

Skip elevators, take the stairs. You can also strengthen your core muscles - gluts, abdominals, and back musculature - while attending to your core curriculum. (With a strong core, body and mind, a better foundation extends abilities to reach further and better.) Do a few isometrics: progressively tensing your core muscles, then gradually relaxing them. Repeat for a few reps.

When you do take an elevator or wait in a line, do isometrics while standing (seeming still). You can also do them sitting, after reaching your class. It's easy to do isometrics while you read or review notes during a quiet moment.

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