All posts by kmn52

🧠 Why You Should Keep Exercising During Exams 🏋️

Let’s be honest- when exams hit, most of us drop everything that isn’t studying. Gym sessions? Gone. Walks? Maybe next month. But here’s the thing: research says that keeping active during exam time isn’t just good for your body – it’s actually really beneficial for your brain.

Want to know more? Keep reading!

Cognitive Benefits of Exercise

Exercise gives your brain a serious boost. It increases blood flow, releases brain-friendly chemicals, and helps build stronger neural connections – all essential for learning and memory. In fact, large-scale research shows that regular physical activity can improve focus, memory, and decision-making skills. These cognitive functions are critical during exams, when focus, problem-solving, and memory retention are in high demand.

Stress Reduction and Emotional Well-being

Exams = stress. But exercise helps your body handle it better.

Studies show that students who stay active during study periods feel less stressed, recover better, and even believe they perform better academically. It doesn’t have to be a full workout – short movement breaks like stretching or walking can make a real difference. So, if you’re feeling overwhelmed, a quick burst of movement might be just what you need.

It Helps You Stay Resilient

Some research looked at law students prepping for final exams (arguably one of the most stressful academic experiences) and found that those who made time for recovery activities like exercise had better well-being and lower stress. Other studies show that physical activity boosts mindfulness and resilience – two traits that help you stay calm and focused under pressure.

Best Types of Exercise for Exam Stress

Not all workouts are created equal. Research suggests that the most effective types of exercise for improving mental health and quality of life in university students are those that involve moderate to vigorous effort. Think dance, Pilates, resistance training, and team sports. These activities combine movement, social interaction, and skill-building – all of which help reduce stress and lift your mood. So, if exams are getting intense, try joining a dance class, lifting weights, or playing a sport. It’s not just good for your body – it’s a reset for your mind.

Final Thoughts: Move Your Body, Help Your Brain

During exams, your brain is your most valuable asset. Exercise helps keep it functioning at its best. Whether it’s a quick jog, a yoga session, or a dance break, moving your body can help you manage stress, improve focus, and perform better academically.

So next time you’re buried in notes and tempted to skip your workout, remember: your brain needs movement too.

People in a spin class enjoying the workout

 

References available below if you’d like to explore the research further.

Donnelly, S., Penny, K., & Kynn, M. (2024). The effectiveness of physical activity interventions in improving higher education students’ mental health: A systematic review. Health promotion international39(2), daae027.

Guo, J. (2025). Physical exercise enhances mindfulness and psychological resilience: A chain mediation model. Frontiers in Psychology. https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fpsyg.2025.1545370/full

Mandolesi, L., et al. (2018). Effects of physical exercise on cognitive functioning and wellbeing: Biological and psychological benefits. Frontiers in Psychology, 9, 509. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2018.00509

Reschke, T., Lobinger, T., & Reschke, K. (2024). Recovery experiences as mediators between stress and well-being during exam preparation. PLOS ONE. https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0306809

Singh, B., et al. (2025). Effectiveness of exercise for improving cognition, memory and executive function: A systematic umbrella review and meta-meta-analysis. British Journal of Sports Medicine. https://bjsm.bmj.com/content/59/12/866

Teuber, M., Leyhr, D., & Sudeck, G. (2024). Physical activity improves stress load, recovery, and academic performance-related parameters among university students. BMC Public Health. https://bmcpublichealth.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12889-024-18082-z

Wunsch, K., et al. (2021). The tridirectional relationship among physical activity, stress, and academic performance in university students: A systematic review and meta-analysis. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 18(2), 739. https://www.mdpi.com/1660-4601/18/2/739

🌈 Mental Health Awareness Week at the UC Rec Centre🌟

Kia ora koutou,

Mental Health Awareness Week (MHAW) is just around the corner, and we’re celebrating with a week of themed group fitness classes at the UC Rec Centre! Whether you’re looking to sweat it out, dance it off, or just vibe with your favourite tunes, we’ve got something for everyone.

Here’s what’s coming up:

🚴  Monday 6 Oct

5:20pm Spin – Taylor Swift Edition

(book quick or join the waitlist – this will sell out!)

💃 Tuesday 7 Oct

5:20pm Zumba – KPOP
Bring a friend for FREE and double the fun!

🏋️ Wednesday 8 Oct

5:20pm Pump – Mamma Mia

🎉 Thursday 9 Oct

5:20pm Spin – Festival Vibes
(book quick or join the waitlist – this will sell out!)

🍒 Friday 10 Oct

12:05pm Core30 – Lana Del Rey

4:20pm – Zumba – KPOP Encore
Couldn’t make Tuesday? Or just want more? Join us again for an encore, and yes, you can still bring a friend for free!

🧘‍♀️ Bonus: Bring a Friend to Yoga – For Free!

Looking for a calmer way to support your mental wellbeing? You can also bring a friend for free to any of the below yoga classes during Mental Health Awareness Week. No theme, just a chance to reset together.

  • Monday, Wednesday, Friday – 1:05pm
  • Tuesday, Thursday – 7:00am

How to Book:

Spots are limited, so make sure to sign up via reception or through our app. Don’t miss out on this chance to move your body, lift your mood, and connect with your community.

Let’s make mental health a priority – together 💙

For additional resources, please visit the MHAW website: Mental Health Awareness Week | Mental Health Awareness Week.

Run the Wuhan Marathon & Represent UC in 2026!

UC has been invited to take part in the Wuhan Marathon University Team Challenge in March 2026, an exclusive event bringing together top global universities for a team-based competition.

We’re looking for 4 UC students (2 male + 2 female) to form our team and represent the University of Canterbury on the international stage.

Eligibility:

To be considered, you must:

  • Be a current UC student in 2026 (proof of enrolment required)
  • Be 20 years or older by March 2026
  • Have completed a full marathon OR a half marathon with verified results/official recorded times.
  • Be an experienced long-distance runner
  • Be willing to comply with group travel and race requirements, including a medical checkup within 1 month of the race

Tentative Schedule:

  • 20 March 2026 – Arrive in Wuhan
  • 21 March – Race kit collection & orientation
  • 22 March – Marathon race day
  • 23 March – Return to NZ

 What’s covered?

All travel, accommodation, and local expenses will be provided by the organisers.

How to apply:

Send your application to josiah.leigh@canterbury.ac.nz with:

  • Your marathon/half marathon official times and/or Strava links
  • Confirmation of your UC student enrolment for 2026

Selections will be made by a panel including UC Rec & Sport, Athletics NZ, and UC’s Strength & Conditioning coach.

[By submitting your information, you acknowledge and consent to it being shared with the selection panel for the purpose of assessment and for the panel to contact you directly with any follow-up questions and consent forms]

Applications close: Monday 6th October 2025.

Do not miss the chance to apply for this awesome opportunity!