What is a good way for a busy grad student to get exercise?

Question

I just started grad school last August. I haven't put on a lot of weight but I have some weight to lose that I gained a while back and I have lost my tone. The problem is I spend 12-13 hours a day in class, teaching class, or working my office. By the time I get home I am too pooped to even think about exercising.

Has anyone had to deal with this situation? How did you find the time and energy to get the exercise you needed?

Alas, the gym would perfect if I had the time AND the money....

.....grad students are notoriously poor.

...at least I am poor

Answer 1

You need to find exercising as a stress release activity rather than a chore or task. In other words, your typical day will involve a lot of work with little time to spare, but if you allow a mere 30 minutes a day to keep your body healthy, mentally and physically, you'll stay fit.

If I were you, I would try some simple cardio with my friends. Just slap on some shorts and take a brisk walk to the campus market and back. Up to you what you want. But try to find something that doesn't add stress to your life. Try relieving some of the stress through your exercise.

Good luck and good job for going to grad school!

Answer 2

Can you find 10 minutes of extra time a day?

If so, then you can exercise even if it's just a little bit. Because I have asthma I found doing more than 10 minutes a day I would get winded. I purchased a DVD (10 minute solution rapid results pilates) and exercise daily.

I started on September 30, 2007 and I've lost over 8" and 26#. It's not quantity, it's quality.