Staying active in college can feel like a major challenge, especially when you’re juggling classes, assignments, and late-night study sessions (or Netflix binges). Not to mention how expensive gym memberships have gotten!
Luckily, keeping your body moving doesn’t have to be pricey or time-consuming. We’ve gathered some easy and fun ways to exercise, no gym required.
Do Your New Year’s Goals Include Exercise?
Research indicates that most people struggle to stick to their New Year’s goals, with only 9 percent succeeding. Setting resolutions can feel exciting at first, but maintaining them takes dedication and consistency. This year, it’s time to become a part of that 9 percent!
If you’ve set a goal to be active, don’t let the odds discourage you. The key to staying active is creating accessible and fun ways to exercise—and that’s exactly what we’re here to help you do!
5 Fun Ways to Exercise Without Splurging At the Gym
Going to the gym is often seen as the go-to solution for fitness, but it doesn’t have to be the only option. Incorporating simple lifestyle changes and activities can make a big difference in your overall health without ever setting foot in a gym! Plus, you won’t have to worry about figuring out complicated gym equipment or feeling self-conscious in front of those regular gym-goers.
1. Walk or Bike Instead of Driving
If your off-campus apartment is close enough to campus, try walking or biking instead of driving. Not only is this a great way to save money on gas and parking fees, but it also provides a low-impact form of exercise. You can even use apps that track your steps or challenge yourself to take new routes each week to spice things up.
2. Take Advantage of Your College Campus
Most colleges offer free or low-cost fitness options for students like group exercise classes, intramural sports teams, and access to recreational facilities. These resources are a great way to stay active and meet new people at the same time.
Instead of scrolling through TikTok during your breaks, why not join a pickup basketball game or try out that yoga class you’ve heard about? Maybe you’ll find fun ways to exercise that you hadn’t thought of!
3. Find Exercise Videos Online
Thanks to the internet, finding exercise videos has never been easier. There are countless fitness channels on YouTube with workout routines ranging from yoga and Pilates to high-intensity interval training (HIIT) and dance workouts.
These are completely free and can be done in the comfort of your own dorm room or off-campus apartment. Plus, you can pick and choose different channels to fit your schedule and fitness level.
4. Team Up with Friends
Accountability is key if you’re trying to stick to a fitness routine. Make plans with your friends to try a new hike, check out a rock climbing gym, or play some ultimate in the park. Not only can the right friends make anything a fun way to exercise, but you’ll also have someone else counting on you to show up.
5. Turn Everyday Tasks into Workouts
Who says you have to set aside dedicated time for exercise? You can easily sneak in some physical activity during your everyday tasks. Small habits add up quickly and make your goal more manageable. Here are some ideas to get started:
- Take the stairs instead of the elevator
- Do squats while brushing your teeth
- Park further away from your classes or workplace and walk to get some extra steps in
- Use a standing desk or take short walks throughout the day to break up long periods of sitting
- Dance while doing chores or cooking dinner
Wharton Rentals: Exercise-Friendly Off-Campus Housing in Ohio
Off-campus housing in Ohio provides endless opportunities to stay fit without paying for a gym membership. Since you have more control over your living space, you can find apartments near fitness centers, swimming pools, and hiking trails to maximize your options for fun ways to exercise!
Wharton Rentals offers several properties near Ohio University’s campus that provide convenient access to these amenities. Browse our options today and find the perfect place to call home.
