October marks the middle of the semester, laced with midterms, exams and assignments. While these daunting tasks are inevitable, utilizing extra time to squeeze in a workout could mean a reduction in stress levels.
Caleb Enzor, a junior biochemistry major, said a daily workout was key in keeping him in a successful routine.
“Working out helps me to be more efficient in my day-to-day by getting me up and going,†Enzor said. “I feel more motivated after I workout, so I tend to get a lot more accomplished after a good workout.â€
A study conducted by the American Psychological Association in 2008 showed exercise can relieve stress, reduce depression and improve cognitive function. They added that 62 percent of adults who say they exercise to help manage stress also say the technique is extremely effective.
“Working out was always an escape from everything else I had to deal with when I was in school,†Walter said. “It also gave me energy to juggle my sport, school work and classes.â€
Pamela Cogdal, a University of Memphis counselor in the Department of Counseling Educational Psychology & Research, said there is an undeniable connection between exercise and stress reduction.
“Moving is good for the brain, physical health and reducing stress,†Cogdal said. “Moving can be walking, yoga, swimming, jogging, etc. I tell my clients that exercise is the number one anti-depressant that many doctors sometimes forget to tell their patients about.â€
Balance is vital for keeping a college career on the right track. Mental health must be taken care of as well as physical health, because they affect each other.
Exercise helps to increase energy levels and improve self-esteem. Self-esteem in college students often correlates with mental stability. The more stable a students’ mind, the better chance they have of coping with stressors in a healthy way.
In another APA study in 2013, one in three college students admitted they experienced depression and had difficulty functioning because of it.
If exercise seems out of the question for a student or it was simply never a part of their routine before, there are options on campus to help them begin.
The U of M’s Campus Recreation Intramural Services offer many programs and classes to accommodate those who may be unfamiliar with proper exercise methods. There is more information at memphis.edu/cris/ about these classes that provide descriptions to help guide as well.
Kaymen Holley, a junior business major at the U of M, said exercise classes are fun, and if someone is uncomfortable to take a friend with them. In this way they are investing in friendships as well as physical health.
