We all know that staying in shape at school can be a challenge. Classes are stressful, homework is consuming, and what little time is left we use to sleep or spend with friends. Perhaps most significantly, going to the gym can be a very stressful experience. Maybe you haven’t been for a while and your treadmill mileage is especially sub-par; maybe your favorite Nike shorts are in the wash and your only other pair are totally unflattering. And then, of course, are all the people watching you or all the other people who you are watching. Some days you might leave the gym feeling pretty good, but some days you don’t. The free-weights mock you; the thigh-press is your worst enemy. What to do? Shake things up! There are a number of activities you can do to stay in shape without a daunting trip to the gym.
Number one: yoga! Yoga is a great way to tone your muscles and enhance flexibility, as well as a great way to clear your mind. It’s super easy to do in a group or alone, and takes little physical or mental preparation. The basic poses are easy to learn and achieve results, fast. Colby offers free classes throughout the year, so maybe you should go try one out!
Number two: take a hike! For all you ladies who don’t mind a trip into the forest, hiking is another great way to get a cardio work out and muscle work out all in one. Colby has some trails right on campus that are great for running or walking. Take the chance to get outside and enjoy the fall foliage while working some cardio into your day. For those who want to stray a little bit farther, there are plenty of hiking opportunities at the Kennebec-Messalonske Trail system. There are number of options, of all levels of difficulty: perfect for an afternoon foray into the woods. For the more adventurous outdoorsmen and women Acadia National Park is a wonderful opportunity for a weekend trip, or even a very long day trip.
Number 3: iPlay. Make a recreational team with your friends and spend a night or two a week having fun and running around. It’s a totally low-pressure situation and another great way to relieve stress. Before you know it you’ll be waking up a little bit sore (the first sign of a successful work out). There are a number of different sports to choose from, so there is a little something for every body.
Number 4: Go for a swim! Though it will soon be too cold to spend an afternoon at the Hume center, Colby has community hours at the pool. Spend an hour doing some laps once or twice a week and you’ll be well on your way to having a stronger heart and perfectly toned muscles!
There are many things to do on campus, or in the surrounding community, so get out and get active! Explore new activities and new places. Who knows: maybe you’ll find something you’ll love.
http://www.kmtrails.org/trails/index.html