Getting yourself to the rec center can be one of the most difficult parts of being a college student. Why put the effort into driving to the rec, figuring out what to do, and physically exerting yourself when you can stay at home and take a nap? College is the time to learn how to adult – and that includes learning how to make time for your physical health!
1. Decide when you can make the time for the rec – and write it wherever you keep track of your time
We’ve all been in the situation where we say we will workout at a certain time, but since it isn’t set in stone we can easily come up with excuses. If you actually sit down, look at your schedule and decide the best times to workout, it is much easier to stick to the plan and follow through. Clear your whiteboard and fill in your classes, extracurriculars and time for a workout. If you have a desk calendar, use that to designate days and times to your grind sessions. By not writing it down and committing yourself to a time, you are subconsciously giving yourself the option to back out of it.
Set weekly reminders on your phone, so you won’t forget. Notifications set with high importance on reminders can be extremely helpful to make sure you don’t miss a scheduled session.
2. Find a workout buddy
Having a workout buddy keeps both of you accountable. Neither one of you wants to cancel on a friend who is expecting you to show up. This is one of the most helpful tips because not only will it help you make yourself go to the rec, but you also get to spend time with someone close to you. Look forward to your next workout by switching off who plans the exercises for each session and make it a competition! See who can make the more difficult one. Saving gas by carpooling is another benefit to this tip.
3. Find workouts on Instagram
The most difficult part about going to the rec can be coming up with what you will do once you actually get there. Fortunately, there are many fitness influencers on Instagram who post workout routines daily. Whitney Simmons (@whitneyysimmons) and Don Saladino (@donsaladino) are popular influencers that give their followers workouts regularly. Save the workout in a “saved posts” folder in your account to reference before you get to the rec. If you know exactly what to do, it becomes less intimidating and more relaxed.
4. Go at the right time
Many people are scared to go to the rec center because they feel overwhelmed by the large crowds of people. You can look up the hours for the rec center on Google and it will tell you what times the rec is most occupied. Chester E. Peters Rec Center is usually less busy in the mornings before lunchtime. Scheduling your workout during these times will make the decision to go to the rec less stressful!
5. Join group fitness classes
A lot of students don’t realize how many (free) opportunities are offered at the rec center, such as group fitness classes. The rec offers a wide variety of classes, from Zumba to extreme core classes. All you need to participate in one of these classes is your student ID. You can find the schedule on the rec center’s website: https://recservices.k-state.edu/complex/. This is another way to ensure you know exactly what you are doing and when, plus it’s fun to bring a friend along!
Staying healthy and active in college is important not just for your physical wellbeing, but also your mental health. Take a break from studying and give your body a way to work off the stress!
