It’s the first few weeks back at school, and you all know what that means: overcrowded gyms! Many students want to keep their hot summer bods, which means it will be nearly impossible to work out in between classes. Lucky for you, you can avoid the lines and the gym completely but still stay fit with these simple tips and tricks.
1. Calf killers: Start your morning off right with some calf raises! Instead of staring at yourself half-asleep in the mirror while you brush your teeth or do your hair, get your blood pumping and your calves working. Simply start with both feet flat on the ground, push off so your heels are in the air and squeeze your calf muscles. Lower to the original position. Do 30 reps in quick succession, then rest for 10 seconds and repeat. Say hello to Midtown-ready calves without smelling any sweat at Southwest Recreation Center.
2. Stairs, stairs, stairs: I know, I know… Elevators are so much more convenient, but deep down, you know stairs are the right choice! Whether it’s one flight or five, get that extra cardio in, and one day, you won’t be huffing and puffing when you get to the top. And yes, you should take them going up and down!
3. Butt burners: This one may sound silly, but we all want the perfect backside, and honestly, what won’t we do to get it? Instead of spending your day waiting for the endless gym line to move inches at a time, get your butt workout in during class. Simply squeeze your buttocks together, and hold for 30 seconds. Then release, and take a 30 second break. Repeat as many times as you want!
4. Hardy handshake: This one is for the arms! While you’re sitting in class, just grip your hands sort of like a handshake, and try to pull them apart. Hold it for 30 seconds, rest and repeat. It’ll look like you’re just resting your elbows on your desk, but you’re actually leaning out your arms.
5. Back pincher: Another exercise you can do while sitting at your desk during class to work out your back is the back pincher! Simply sit up straight, roll your shoulders back and squeeze your shoulder blades together. Hold for 30 seconds and release.
6. The ab flex: Just like the butt squeeze, this can be done anywhere, any time. It’s basically the exact same as the butt burners, but with your abs. Who doesn’t want fabulous abs? Simply squeeze your abs in 30-second intervals when you wake up, while you walk to class, while you study or while you watch Netflix! Would you rather watch Netflix or wait in line at the gym?
7. Lean and get lean: If, your spare time, you are leaning on a wall or holding a door open, you could be doing some arm exercises. Begin by leaning against the wall with your arm straight. Then slowly bend your arm, and get your elbow as close to the wall as you can. Next, straighten again and repeat 30 times. Finally, switch sides and do the other arm! Work those biceps and triceps, collegiettes™!
8. The study twist: These next three are for those late nights of studying when you just need a break and want some exercise. For this one, sit up straight in your chair and extend your arms straight and parallel to the floor. Twist to the left 90 degrees; then return to the original position and switch to the right. Repeat 30 times, and then get back to studying!
9. Oblique obliterator: Sitting in the same upright position, put your hands behind your head. Lean first to the right as far as your can, then go back upright. Then lean to the left. Repeat this 30 times to work your oblique muscles. Bye bye, love handles!
10. Indian style bicep lifts: Begin this one by sitting Indian style in your chair. Securely grab the arms of your chair, and lift your whole body off the seat of the chair by straightening your arms. Hold for three seconds, and then lower your body back down. Repeat 30 times.
Next time you’re dreading a two-hour trip to an on-campus gym, keep these quick and simple exercises in mind. Good luck exercising, collegiettes™!
Photo credits:
www.aashe.org
www.lucilleroberts.com