How does physical activity benefit students?

By Iker Hernandez
Reporter

Physical Activity Benefits

“Put Yourself First: Physical Activity” during Wellness Week emphasized that being active can be beneficial for Crowder students.  

“Students who are physically active tend to have better grades, school attendance, cognitive performance, and classroom behaviors,” according to cdc.gov.  

Research done at the University of Illinois found that exercise can reduce the shrinkage of the hippocampus. Which is part of the human brain that is responsible for memories and to remember information. 

“Being physically active makes me feel better and I can focus more.” said, Crowder nursing student.   

Being physically active has also shown that it can reduce stress, improve mood, and improve concentration. Prolonged periods of stress have negative effects on the body and mind. Exercise helps combat those by assisting with sleep, eases anxiety, and may help with larger health problems in the long run.  

Exercising in general is also beneficial. It reduces the chances of diseases, it strengthens the bones and muscles, and it can increase the chances of living longer. As you move more, the heart pumps more blood, delivering more oxygen to the muscles, which increases energy levels.  

“I would tell students to start being active now because it gets harder to get back when you stop. The benefits of it are so good that I know a 60-year-old who runs more than me.” said, Crowder nursing student.