Physical activity And wellbeing as a student
30 April 2024By Amelia. A, Staff writer at Unite Students
As a student, it's likely you'll encounter new challenges and stressors every day. If it’s your first time living away from home, not only are you new to navigating the world of adulthood, but you might also be managing additional feelings of homesickness, exam stress or financial worries. That’s a lot for someone who’s just flown the nest!
That’s why as a student it’s important to prioritise and pay attention to your mental wellbeing. University is a big change and it can be overwhelming, stressful and anxiety inducing. But when it comes to your mental wellbeing, there are things you can do to help manage these feelings and make uni a more enjoyable experience overall.
In this blog, we’ll explore:
How moving can support your mental wellbeing
It’s no secret that staying active benefits your long-term physical health, but don’t count out the benefits moving your body can do for your mental wellbeing too! Staying active and moving your body has the potential to relieve tension and stress, give you a natural energy boost and improve your focus and motivation.
As a student, it’s likely you’ll face challenges during your studies, so it’s important to have some healthy coping mechanisms to hand. Exercise releases hormones called endorphins aka the ‘feel good’ hormone. These hormones can naturally improve your mood and reduce stress – and let’s be honest, who wouldn’t want that?
Don’t worry, you don’t have to be a marathon runner or an Olympic athlete to reap the benefits; it’s said that even a brisk 10-minute walk can increase our mental alertness, energy, and positive mood.
Remember, physical activity refers to any movement of your body that uses your muscles, raises your heart rate, and uses up energy. So the good news is, you don't need to commit to overcomplicated or high intensity workouts - it can be whatever works for you! For guidance check out the NHS guide on what counts as moderate, vigorous and very vigorous activity.
Different ways you can move
We get it, physical activity can sometimes seem like a chore especially if you're low on motivation and energy levels. Our top tip is to find a form of physical activity that you genuinely enjoy as well as something that works for you and your body.
That means you don't need to force yourself to run on the treadmill if you dread every waking moment. Below are suggestions of different ways you can move that show how simple and varied physical activity can be.
See if your student accommodation has a gym
At Unite Students properties, lots of our halls have fully equipped on-site student gyms, or free access to gyms at nearby properties. Some of our properties even have tailored facilities like dance studios, a sports court, and yoga studios. With the use of the gym included in your rent what's to lose? Lace up your trainers and find your way around the amenities on offer at our on-site gyms.
Go for a walk around your city
As a uni student, it’s likely you’ll be spending a lot of time sitting at your desk or in the library. However, it’s important to remember to go outside and get some fresh air every so often, to clear your mind and also to move your body. Walking's not only a great low impact form of physical activity, but it also gives you the chance to slow down, take in the beauty of your city and explore new areas you’ve not seen before.
Try out an exercise class
Find it hard to stay motivated and need some guidance? Then why not try an exercise class! This allows you to leave it to the experts and fully immerse yourself in the fun, whilst making new friends and maybe even discovering a new passion. From strength training, to spin classes and Zumba – there’s bound to be something for all levels and abilities.
To find classes available near you, check out your local leisure centre. Or if you want more variety, you could try a monthly fitness membership such as ClassPass, which provides users with access to hundreds of fitness studios and gyms nearby.
Try a fitness app
Like working out in your own space and on your own time? Why not try a fitness app instead and get your daily dose of physical activity in the comfort of your own home. There are a plethora of fitness app options available, meaning you can still get great results without breaking the bank!
Seeking professional support
Although physical activity can help to improve your mental wellbeing, it shouldn't be used in replacement of professional support from your local GP, or even your university who should have details of the support available via their official websites.
Our Support For You page which hosts a variety of useful resources and services which can help you access student mental health support. Additionally, if you’re a Unite Students resident, you can access free confidential support via the Health Assured app. Their student wellbeing helpline is also available 24/7 here.
