Exercise not only builds your fitness, it also boosts your brain power which can help you do better in school and improve your grades. Studies show that students who do aerobic exercise such as walking and swimming have bigger brains. Exercise is simply about moving your body -which can be almost anything that gets you active, like walking, throwing a Frisbee, or anything physically. At (IUC) International University of the Caribbean, if you’re not active, you are cheating yourself from all the benefits exercise can bring you. In particular, exercise enlarges your brain's basal ganglia (the part that helps you pay attention), even through another ho-hum chemistry class. One school has shown that 30 minutes of walking on a treadmill improved students' problem-solving skills by 10%. That could bump you up a letter grade!
Being active also has other benefits; It can also help you sleep better, feel more energetic, and be less stressed. When you make exercise a habit, you can start seeing and feeling the benefits; even if you don't love it every single day. It can transform from being something you dread into something you look forward to doing for yourself.
It's important to find time to exercise, particularly during exams when all you seem to do is sit at your desk and work all day and often into the night.
Why should students exercise?
Not only is exercise good for your overall health and fitness, but it also boosts your mental wellbeing. Exercise will help keep you calm during exams. You’ll feel more energized and refreshed, and that will help you perform better in your studies.
Also, regular physical activity will help to keep you at a healthy weight and lower your risk of major illnesses such as heart disease and some cancers.
Keeping active doesn’t require a lot of time and effort. Doing 150 minutes (two and a half hours) of moderate intensity physical activity, such as fast walking or cycling, every week will give you many health benefits.
Exercise tips for exam times
During exams you may feel unable to take much time out from studying. Instead of giving up on exercise altogether, try taking small, regular breaks to refresh yourself and clear your mind. A 15-minute brisk walk to the library or around campus is a good way of getting some exercise. You could also try to exercise first thing in the morning. You may find it wakes you up and gives you energy for the day. Try swimming, a gentle jog or doing some stretching exercises.
Think about what times of day you work best. Some people find revising and completing coursework easier in the morning, whereas others are more productive in the afternoon or evening. Plan your day and fit some exercise around your study plan.
Exercise can improve circulation and help students think clearly, improving their academics. It can help students sleep better, reduce stress, provide energy, and help students feel better about themselves by giving them control over their bodies. One study done by Tufts University indicated that students who exercise are generally happier. Another benefit of exercise in college may be that it helps students establish life-long habits that will benefit them for years to come.