A study from North Carolina State University found that one hour of physical exercise can lead to a 0.06 GPA improvement and a 49% higher chance of graduating. Besides helping you maintain a healthy weight and lowering the risk of chronic diseases, exercise can also boost your academic performance.
If you are an online student, you might miss out on the physical activity traditional students get by walking around campus. It’s important to plan and include exercise in your daily routine. The good news is that you don’t need an expensive gym membership to lose weight, build strength, balance, and flexibility. Simply setting aside time for an effective at-home yoga routine can help you maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Exercise is crucial for better physical health, and online students should exercise regularly. Low-intensity physical activities increase energy levels, combating fatigue. Distance learning students often face fatigue due to long study hours without much movement. Spending one to three hours practicing yoga, doing aerobics, dancing, or engaging in activities involving both the upper and lower body can reduce the risk of depression and heart disease. Yoga improves conditioning, increases strength, stabilizes a healthy heart rate, and boosts cardiovascular functions.
Online students spend a lot of time staring at laptops or desktops. Unlike their peers in traditional settings, they gaze at slides for long hours. They often spend free time watching movies or chatting on smartphones, which is not a proper break for the eyes. Taking a few minutes to do yoga exercises can reduce eyestrain and prevent headaches from prolonged studying.
Exercise isn’t just good for physical health; it also enhances memory. When you work out, levels of dopamine, epinephrine, and proteins in the brain rise, improving problem-solving skills. Intensive exercises like jogging, brisk walking, and aerobics increase blood circulation to the brain, promoting cell growth essential for learning. Spending at least 20 minutes exercising can improve your concentration in class.
Study breaks are crucial for staying motivated and productive. Instead of lounging on the couch, which won’t boost productivity, opt for exercise. Physical activity keeps you alert and energized by increasing blood flow. It also helps release stress-related toxins that affect the brain and nervous system. High stress can tighten muscles, making you feel tired and sore. Simple stretching exercises relax your muscles, leaving you refreshed and ready to tackle academic tasks with increased productivity and motivation.
Incorporating exercise into your daily routine is key to better academic performance. Thankfully, you don’t need to spend a lot on a gym membership. With a variety of DIY workouts and yoga positions, you can stay fit from the comfort of your home. Just invest in the right equipment and commit time to exercise.
