Regular exercise can do wonders for our mental health, especially in stressful situations students often find themselves in. There are many ways for KCC students to get active, whether you prefer lifting weights at the gym, taking group classes with friends, or working out from the comfort of your own home.
Your status as a current KCC student brings many perks, even outside of the classroom. For example, a membership at Battle Creek’s YMCA can run from anywhere between $48 and $68, but those with an active student ID can get a special rate of only $22.50 per month. The fitness center includes various workout areas, a pool, group fitness classes, and sessions with a personal trainer.
Want to stay on campus? The North Avenue campus features plenty of beautiful views to admire from the walking trails surrounding the school. If you’re looking for some competition you can always take advantage of the outdoor tennis and pickleball courts, which are available to the general public on a first come first serve basis.
If you prefer workout machines and air conditioning, the Miller Building offers various indoor workout areas that are open to KCC students and staff only. There are weekly schedules posted outside each room to establish when they are available for general use – classes and athletic practices do take first priority.
Between classes, jobs, and other responsibilities many can’t possibly fit any more trips into their day. Luckily, if you can muster up the motivation and resist distractions, it can be very easy to close those Apple Watch rings right at home.
Fitness video games are no new phenomenon, and anyone with a Nintendo Switch can play games like Just Dance and Ring Fit Adventure for a bit of cardio. You don’t have to spend any money either – YouTube is a great resource for fitness where you can find thousands of follow-along workouts, whether you prefer a session of relaxing yoga or an intense HIIT routine.
A common misconception is that the main point of a consistent workout routine is to change your body. Everybody knows that exercise burns body fat and prevents many diseases. Still, students specifically can benefit from exercising more in many other ways.
For example, according to the Centers for Disease Control, physically active students tend to have better grades and cognitive performance, the spike in endorphins can help dissipate some of the stress students are susceptible to, and working out with friends or in a class is a great way to build relationships with those around you. Get out there and sweat, Bruins!
More information about the Miller Building’s resources can be found here. You can learn about and sign up for the YMCA at ymcabattlecreek.org.
