March is often a month full of midterms, but it should also be a month full of movement! In fact, movement helps boost memory and focus, both of which will help you crush your midterms! However, it can be tough to find time to exercise when you’re studying 24/7. But… what if I told you that you can still get moving without having to carve out chunks of time in your schedule? Here are 5 ways in which you can incorporate physical activity into your life even when you’re on that study grind!
1. Use a standing desk
The Canadian 24 Hour Movement Guidelines also recommends minimizing the time you spend sitting all day to less than 8 hours and breaking up long chunks of sitting. This is where standing desks can be helpful, as you can alternate between sitting and standing. Depending on your height, there are standing desks available in IKB, Koerner Library, LIFE, and Woodward Library!
2. Try “deskercises”
“Deskercises” are any exercises that can be performed at the comfort of your own desk! Follow Diane from the Move U Crew as she shows you some classic examples of deskercises.
3. Take the stairs
If it’s accessible, challenge yourself by taking the stairs instead of the elevator. It’s a great mini burst of cardio and an opportunity to strengthen your legs. If you’d like a greater challenge, you can try skipping steps!
4. Perform calf raises while waiting
With a campus as busy as ours, it’s inevitable to find yourself waiting in line, whether it’s at the Bus Loop or Blue Chip. So, why not multitask, and get some calf raises in while you’re at it? Doing so will help you work towards the weekly recommendation of resistance training of targeting two major muscle groups per week!
5. Take your meetings for a walk or a roll!
Whether you have a meeting for work or a call to catch up with loved ones, try taking your meeting or call for a walk or roll outside! Fresh air always feels nice coupled with exercise and good company.
If you’d like to see these 5 tips in action, check out this reel! Remember, movement isn’t only confined within the walls of a gym. Movement can be done anywhere and any second devoted to movement is a valid contribution to your overall health. Best of luck with midterms, and stay moving, UBC!