Top 5 Ways to Stay Fit and Healthy Abroad
Staying active and healthy while studying abroad can be difficult as you navigate a different routine and lifestyle. With all the new activities and changes, exercising may not be your top priority. However, staying active while studying abroad has many benefits; it’s also a great way to meet people, explore your new home, and according to the Mayo Clinic , provide an emotional outlet, as exercise will relieve stress and improve your mood. Here are some tips on how to stay fit, happy, and healthy during your time abroad.
Walk when you can
You will have plenty of chances to walk while you are abroad: take them! If it’s safe and you can, wouldn’t you rather take advantage of a beautiful day in a foreign city by being outside, rather than taking the subway? You might also try biking if walking or running isn’t an option; it’s a great workout and many cities are more conducive to biking than running.
Run
If you are into running, it’s a great way to get to know a new area. Upon your arrival in your host country, stop by the office of tourism and ask if there are any local parks where it’s safe to run, or if there are any running groups you can join. Make sure to double check areas to avoid, and always run with a friend.
Work out when you can
It can be difficult to find the time to work out. Try to tweak your schedule to make exercise part of your daily, or at least weekly, routine, and stick to it. You may find that you have to get up early in order to fit it in. It can make a huge difference in your mood, energy levels, and health, and can improve how you feel while studying and doing the other activities in your day.
Join a club or team
Joining a club or team is not only a good way to get exercise, but also a great way to meet people with a shared interest! Sports and teamwork are great ways to break down the language barrier in a new country. The socializing aspect of group exercise can be super helpful in making friends.
Cook for yourself
Food is one of the most exciting parts of experiencing a new culture and studying abroad. You should embrace this opportunity whenever you feel pulled, but remember that you will be in your host country for quite a while and will have plenty of opportunities to try everything. You’ll find that cooking for yourself is a healthy and more affordable alternative to eating out all the time, as well as an important part of managing your budget and routine. Cooking for yourself doesn’t mean missing out on the local food, though. Try looking for local farmers markets and immersing yourself in the cuisine of your host country, and don’t be afraid to try new things!The most important thing to remember while studying abroad is to have fun and be safe! This is a once in a lifetime opportunity, and you’ll want to make the very most of it. Take full advantage of all the opportunities presented to you.
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