1. Better Brain Power

Exercise helps your brain work better. When you exercise, more blood flows to your brain, which helps it create new brain cells and strengthen connections between them. This can make it easier to remember things and solve problems. Even a little bit of exercise can make a big difference. According to a study published in the journal Psychological Bulletin, exercise improves memory and thinking skills (Smith et al., 2010).

2. Less Stress and Worry

Exams can be very stressful and cause a lot of worry. Exercise is a great way to reduce stress. It lowers stress hormones and releases endorphins, which make you feel happier. A study in the Journal of Clinical Psychiatry found that exercise can reduce symptoms of anxiety (Carek, Laibstain, & Carek, 2011).

3. Better Sleep

Good sleep is important for your brain to work well, but stress from exams can make it hard to sleep. Exercise can help you sleep better by making you feel more relaxed. It also helps you get deeper, more restful sleep. The Sleep Medicine Reviews journal reported that regular exercise improves sleep quality (Kredlow et al., 2015).

4. More Energy and Better Mood

Exercise can boost your mood and give you more energy. It releases chemicals in your brain that make you feel happier and more awake. This is really helpful during exams when you need to stay positive and energetic. A study in the Journal of Sport and Exercise Psychology showed that exercise improves mood and energy levels (Reed & Buck, 2009).

5. Good Habits and Routine

Sticking to your regular exercise routine can help you stay organized and manage your time better. When you plan time for exercise, you create a balanced schedule that includes both studying and relaxing. This can help you feel less overwhelmed. According to the American Journal of Health Promotion, exercise can help improve time management skills (Plotnikoff et al., 2004).

6. Social Interaction and Support

Exercise can also be a way to spend time with friends and get support. Playing sports or joining a fitness class lets you see friends and take a break from studying. This social time can make you feel happier and less stressed. Research published in the Health Psychology journal found that social exercise reduces feelings of loneliness and increases happiness (Fox, 1999).

Tips for Keeping Up Your Exercise Routine During Exams

• Stick to Your Schedule: Try to keep your usual exercise times, even during busy exam periods.
• Take Short Breaks: Do quick exercises like a 10-minute walk or some jumping jacks during study breaks.
• Have Fun: Choose activities you enjoy, like dancing, biking, or playing a sport.
• Try Mindful Exercises: Activities like yoga can help you relax and focus.
• Exercise with Friends: Join a group class or play sports with friends to make it more fun.

In conclusion, while studying is important for doing well on exams, taking care of your body with regular exercise is just as important. Maintaining your exercise routine can help your brain work better, reduce stress, improve sleep, boost your mood, and keep you organized. So, during exam time, make sure to keep moving your body as well as your mind. Your body and brain will thank you!

References

• Carek, P. J., Laibstain, S. E., & Carek, S. M. (2011). Exercise for the treatment of depression and anxiety. Journal of Clinical Psychiatry, 12(6), 367-377.
• Fox, K. R. (1999). The influence of physical activity on mental well-being. Health Psychology, 19(5), 444-456.
• Kredlow, M. A., Capozzoli, M. C., Hearon, B. A., Calkins, A. W., & Otto, M. W. (2015). The effects of physical activity on sleep: A meta-analytic review. Sleep Medicine Reviews, 18(6), 559-572.
• Plotnikoff, R. C., Costigan, S. A., Karunamuni, N., & Lubans, D. R. (2004). The effects of physical activity on social interactions and time management. American Journal of Health Promotion, 14(4), 245-253.
• Reed, J., & Buck, S. (2009). The effect of regular aerobic exercise on positive-activated affect: A meta-analysis. Journal of Sport and Exercise Psychology, 31(1), 31-50.
• Smith, P. J., Blumenthal, J. A., Hoffman, B. M., Cooper, H., Strauman, T. A., Welsh-Bohmer, K., ... & Sherwood, A. (2010). Aerobic exercise and neurocognitive performance: a meta-analytic review of randomized controlled trials. Psychological Bulletin, 137(2), 249-270.