After a long school day, whether virtual or in-person, going home and exercising may often be the last thing on our minds. While school is mentally exhausting, it does not provide the level of activity necessary to stay in shape physically and maintain our mental health. In fact,  The American Heart Association reports that only one out of every four teenagers gets the recommended amount of exercise. Therefore, it is crucial that we allocate some time to work out. Especially because, according to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, physical activity “is very effective at reducing fatigue, improving alertness and concentration, and at enhancing overall cognitive function.”  

   In theory, getting daily exercise after school should be a perfect way to help you through the rest of the day. It will not only improve your ability to focus on your work after, but it will also re-energize you after a taxing time at school. A report from the Center of Disease Control explains that getting regular physical activity “can also reduce your risk of depression and anxiety and help you sleep better.” However, oftentimes, people avoid exercising because they are not sure exactly how to do it properly. This lack of knowledge may make exercising intimidating; so below are some easy ways for anyone to get activity at home.

1. First, push-ups and sit-ups are a staple exercise in the home workout. Both of these are quite simple and require no special equipment, and combined, they strengthen your core, abdominal muscles, arms, and back. The activities are quick and will leave you feeling refreshed and energized after.
2. Another great option is running as it is a strong and uncomplicated exercise. Running consistently can quickly build cardiovascular strength and serve as a productive way to get outside for some much-needed fresh air. Ethan Masset, a junior who runs on the cross-country team, says that “In my experience, on weeks when I do not go for any runs, I am on edge and normally more negative about everything. When I do run, I see an almost instant jump in my productivity and overall happiness.” Running is an accessible activity that can quickly boost your mood.
3. If running is not exactly your speed, taking regular walks is also a great option. A Harvard Health article explains that going on 30 minute walks on most days of the week has about the same health benefits as going on 3 runs weekly. Walking also is a perfect way to spend time outside, and is much less physically demanding than running. It does not have to be boring, either; listening to your favorite music or podcast while walking can enhance your experience and give you a good reason to go on a walk in the first place. Taking walks consistently is yet another simple method to spend some time outside and exercise.

   Exercising after a day at school may seem boring, intimidating, or just too tiring. However, just trying to get some physical activity or some time outside will have great benefits for your mental health and your mood for the rest of the day. Physical activity can bring variety to your day and re-energizes you as a result. No matter how you work out, make sure to always enjoy yourself while doing so and make sure to exercise safely.