Getting sneaky about exercise

This week was one of those weeks where it felt like everything was happening at once. I had numerous papers due, campus events to attend, readings to catch up on... it was crazy busy. We’re getting down to that chaotic final stretch, and there will be days where we really just can’t stick to our usual gym routine. But that doesn’t mean we can’t get any exercise at all! The MoveU Crew  has got you covered next Wednesday November 28^th with their Stress Busters event. But if you can’t make it, that’s ok too!This week I thought up of some super sneaky ways for you to squeeze in a little extra exercise as you go about your day. Take the stairs instead of the elevator/escalator. I’m sure you’ve heard this 1000 times before, but I want to emphasize it because it is SO SIMPLE! One of my classes is on the sixth floor, and I trek up those stairs like I’m training for the CN Tower Stair Climb. Seriously, you can burn some serious calories using the stairs around campus! And for commuters, the stair cases don’t stop there. It didn’t take me long to figure out that I can usually beat the TTC crowd by taking the plain old stairs instead of the jam-packed escalator. Win-win! Take the longer route. Since I commute, I’ll often walk the extra 10-12 minutes to/from the subway station instead of catching the bus. You could also try exiting one or two stops early, and walking the rest of the way. And res students – try skipping the shortcut and taking a different path/road back to your place. Detours can be a good thing! Get your game on. Video games your thing? No problem! During your next study break, pop in a game like Wii Fit or Dance Dance Revolution and you’ll be all set. You don’t have to be a pro at these things – whatever gets you up and moving! I’ve also played Just Dance for Wii with my friends before. I always end up with the lowest score, but it is SO much fun! Bust a move! If you are in your room and are short on space, sometimes the easiest thing to do is to crank up the radio – or maybe your iTunes – and just jam it out. I know, it sounds like I took that piece of advice straight from Taylor Swift… …but really, who hasn’t danced around their room to their favourite song before?! I sure have! It’s a great way to clear your mind and help you re-focus (and of course, to work on those dance moves!). When all else fails...Youtube. There are SO MANY fitness videos on Youtube with the anytime, anywhere kinda theme. After sitting at my desk for hours working on a paper, I didn’t want to venture too far so I tried Blogilates. These are great when you are out of ideas, but wanna take that quick break to really work those muscles! Hope this helps to keep you moving, during even the craziest days!! -Lesia