We all know that for most people, keeping fit at University is not always at the top of your list. However, there are so many easy ways to keep fit at University, even if it’s not one of your priorities! Here are some great ways you can keep fit at Uni…
Join a sports team
There are so many sport clubs at the University, and so many different levels you can play. You can play for the York Sports Union and compete at University level (which means you represent the Uni at any competitions you go to). You would have the chance to compete against Lancaster at Roses. If you’ve never been involved in Roses, it is one of the best weekends of the year. It is so much fun! You can also play at college level, meaning you compete against other colleges at the university and at Durham during college varsity.
My keep-fit experience
I was apart of the University’s cheerleading club- York Hornets. We trained around 2-3 times a week and competed at 3 competitions around the UK (and at Roses) during spring and summer term. We also became two time National Champions! It was one of the best things I did at Uni. I met some amazing people, learnt new skills
and I was able to stay fit at the same time. I also recently joined the yoga society. It’s a £10 membership for the year, then £1.50 for each session you attend. You can pick which sessions you want to go to and it’s another great way to stay calm and relax after a long day.
If you’re a postgrad student, you’re also able to join any of these clubs. You can also take part in sports sessions that the GSA (Graduates Students’ Association) put on during the week. They have a selection of sports from Netball to Football.
Join the Gym
This may seem like the obvious choice and to be honest, it probably is; but the great thing about York is that it has gym facilities on both campuses. Whether you live near west or closer to east, you have access to at least one. Both facilities offer a wide variety of sports classes from Zumba to Body Combat. The great thing about these is that you can pay as you go; so if you don’t have a gym membership, you can still go to the classes. The gym on east campus also has a pool you can use on a pay as you go basis. If you fancy a change from your normal workouts, maybe you could try this. Finally, they offer gym memberships at a student rate, which is great, as we all know students love a discount!
Go for a walk (or if you’re feeling adventurous, a run)
This may seem like a bit of a lousy option, however, another great thing about York is the amount to see, whether that’s on campus or in town. You can go for a walk around both the lakes on each of the campuses, or go for a walk on the walls in the centre of town. The best thing is, it’s free! Also, the university has a YorActive outdoor fitness trail, which is 5km and connects both west and east campus.
Keep fit and have fun
The main thing about doing a bit of exercise at Uni is that it will help you to de-stress and stay calm during hectic periods like exam and essay time. It’s also a great way to be able to leave your house for a couple of hours and get some fresh air. Finally, you could do all this with a group of friends, and it could become a great way to see each other. Finally, when you look back at your University experience, it’s not only about academia. Maybe joining a sports team could be one of your highlights!
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