It’s cold and dreary out. Staying in shape and working out are probably the last things you want to do. College gyms can be the worst, whether it’s the grey interior and fluorescent lights, or it’s the pressure of judgment. So many questions can blaze through your mind. Does the person next to me think I’m running too slowly? Do they think I’m running too fast, showing off? Am I pedaling too fast, too slow? Am I using this machine right? Should I even bother attempting to lift weights? Will the jocks judge me? Does this school even have jocks?
It gets easy to just create excuses to avoid the gym, to avoid working out. There are so many warm drinks to try and Netflix shows to binge watch. Plus, if it’s snowing, why ever leave the comfort of your room to brave the weather besides for food? Well, luckily for you collegiette, there is an endless list of exercises you could do from the comfort of your very own room. No fancy equipment necessary, just a minimal amount of space and sneakers so you don’t slip and fall, but if you do no one will be able to see! Plus, working out gives you endorphins proven to increase your mood instantly and provide a better outlook long-term.
Try a high intensity interval workout to begin with. Twenty seconds of activity, ten second break, and on to the next activity. This will get your heart rate up. Plus you can start small; try ten minutes the first time and slowly add more exercises into your routine. Keep the ten second intervals, really try to push yourself. You’ll be surprised how much you can do! Keep in mind to listen to your body, if your body needs longer then ten seconds, then give it as much time as it needs.
1. Crunches
2. Burpees
3. Mountain Climbers
4. Reverse Crunches
5. Russian Twists
6. Planks
7. Lunges
8. Jumping Jacks
9. Squats
Try writing down the exact workout you want to do, and how many of each you want to do over time. Keeping a workout journal can help motivate you to exercise daily. This way you can go back and look at past workouts, remember which you liked or did not like, and see your progress as you strengthen.
Put together a really empowering workout playlist, or watch some YouTube workout channels. There are some great channels out there that will demonstrate the exercises, keep track of time, and motivate you. Try POPSUGAR Fitness or Fitness Blender.