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TOP TEN: Top Ten Reasons to Hit the Gym

This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Illinois chapter.

Between going to class and work and having a social life, it’s hard to find the time to work out. Working out is a great supplement to your daily routine, and here’s why.

1. More Time With Your Friends

During those weeks when your workload is really heavy, it can feel like you don’t have time to spend with your friends. Hitting the gym with your girls is a great way to spend time with them while also being productive. They can even motivate you to work harder while you’re there!

2. Stress Relief

As a college student, life can become really hectic at times. Hitting the gym is a great way to blow off some steam, even if it’s only for a half hour. Because your body releases endorphins while you’re working out, you’ll feel much more at ease when you’re done.

3. Guilt-Free Dessert!

We all love to indulge in some delicious desserts every once in a while. Working out allows you to have that scoop (or two) of ice cream without feeling guilty about it later. After all, everyone deserves a little treat from time to time.

4. Muscle Looks Good On Everyone

There’s nothing wrong with a little muscle! Although many women tend to stick to the elliptical or treadmill, lifting weight is a great way to tone your body, speed up your metabolism and burn more fat than just cardio alone.

5. Maintain Your Health

A fit body is a healthy body. Not only does hitting the gym benefit your health in the short run, but If you get into the habit of working out now, it can also help you to ward off serious conditions, such as heart disease, in the future.

6. More Energy

Feeling sleepy? Working out will give you the energy you need to maintain your busy lifestyle without the fatigue. Skip the unhealthy energy drinks and hop on the treadmill for twenty minutes; you’ll feel better in no time.

7. Switch Up Your Routine

At times, it can feel like you’re just going through the motions of class, work, homework and sleeping. Taking a little time out of your day to hit the gym is a nice change of pace.

8. Study Break!

After working on homework for a few hours, it can feel like your head’s going to explode. Taking a study break and working out can help you to clear your mind and feel refreshed after an exhausting study session.

9. Shopping For New Clothes Is More Fun!

Working out helps to improve your self-esteem and self-image. When you feel confident about your body, shopping for new clothes is way more fun. After spending some time in the gym, you will start to see some awesome results. Go ahead and pick up that new dress; you’ve earned it.

10. Improved Quality Of Life

Overall, going to the gym can improve the quality of your life. Going to the gym not only helps you to look good, but it also helps you to feel good. Working out leads to a happier, healthier life.

 

Photos by Jasmyne Monaco