Even though we desperately want to and try to stay active on a regular basis, during exam time it’s only THAT much harder. We think that taking those 30 minutes to get our exercise fix will take away from those 30 minutes we should be studying. However, studies show that exercise not only helps you physically, but also mentally. In the long run, taking that 30 minutes to take a break and exercise can actually help you retain more information for your exams. So, take the time, take the break, and get your blood flowing! But if you truly, truly can’t seem to take yourself away from your notes—here’s the best ways to study and get your muscles pumping at the same time:
Take a break.
Sitting in the library all day staring at your notes? The gym is the ultimate stress reliever and your much needed break. Although it’s hard for many people to pull yourself away from your notes you’ll be thanking me later. As soon as you start to feel restless and need a change of scenery, the gym is the perfect break to take. It’s 30 minutes where you don’t have to think about your notes or think about studying, and just focus on your breathing. It’s the best natural stress reliever!
… If you really can’t take yourself away from your notes, here is your solution:
1. Read Your Notes While Working Out
Run for a bit, walk for a bit. While you’re walking instead of listening to music or watching TV, read your notes. It’s the perfect way to get your exercise fix in while still keeping up with studying.
2. Every Time You Finish a Chapter Do a Small Workout
This should be done in your own home, unless you’re okay with people watching you workout in the library. Whether it’s one minute of squats or one minute of crunches, it’s the perfect transition into the next chapter and to get your blood pumping.
3. Study With A Friend and Test Each Other While You’re Working Out
While one friend does sit ups, or push ups, or any workout you prefer; the other friends reads the notes aloud and asks the friend working out questions. Then switch.
4. Test Yourself
Make yourself a test from your notes. After completing it and checking over the answers, for every answer you got wrong, multiply the number by 10 and do some kind of exercise. For example, if you got number four wrong, do 40 jumping jacks.
5. Walk Everywhere (if the weather is applicable)
If it’s not too cold out, maybe take a walk to the library instead of the bus. It might not be a high intensity workout, but it’s still better than nothing!
Good luck with your exams Western, and stay active!