Everyone wants to get in shape, but sometimes getting to the gym just isn’t going to happen. Stuff always comes up, especially with our busy college schedules. Between classes, jobs, homework, clubs, social lives, eating, and sleeping, how can we expect to keep up a consistent workout schedule? Those of you who do, I give you a lot of credit. I do not have the strength. For those of us who struggle to find the time, energy, or motivation to get to the gym, here are a few ways to sneak in a little bit of a workout without complete disruption of your schedule.
Study Break
How often do you find yourself studying (or trying to) for hours straight, your butt going numb because of the uncomfortable chair you’re sitting in, your mind slipping out of focus and making it so difficult to get any productive work done? We’ve all been there. Instead of attempting to power through and getting nothing done, take a couple of minutes every half hour or so and do tricep dips on your chair. This will get your blood pumping, give you a break from studying, and make it easier to focus.
Sweat Before You Suds
This one is a little weird, but it honestly works. When you take a shower, you can get a mini leg workout. In between steps, like washing your face, shampooing, conditioning, shaving, etc. you can slip in some exercises. Depending on the size of your shower and your level of coordination, you can do squats, lunges, calf raises, or even wall sits if the shower is clean enough. Then once you’re done, you’re already in the shower to wash up. Just take special care to not slip and fall.
Arm Circles
Believe it or not, a great way to tone your arms is by just doing arm circles for as long as you can. You can literally do these any time, anywhere. Make it a competition with your roommate to see who can go for longer. If you want an extra challenge, try holding something in each hand to add some weight. It doesn’t matter how you do them: forward, backward, big, small. Just keep those arms up and soon you’ll have super toned Michelle Obama arms.
Jam Out
Get a nice cardio workout without having to run. Make a kickass playlist of your favorite upbeat songs. You can make the length of it the same length as you wish to work out. Then, put your headphones in and let loose. Dancing is actually a fun way to have a cardio workout, and it also relieves stress after a long week of exams.
