Physical Activity
Physical activity is essential to your health and well-being, and it supports you in achieving your personal and academic goals.
Did you know? The majority of students at Columbia University are physically active. About 96% of undergraduate and graduate respondents reported having engaged in moderate or vigorous exercise in the past seven days*.
Benefits of Regular Physical Activity
- Reduces stress
- Increases productivity
- Improves quality of sleep
- Improves self-esteem and body image
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention also list the following benefits of physical activity:
- Strengthens bones and muscles
- Improves mental health and mood
- Reduces risk of cardiovascular disease
- Reduces risk for type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome
- Reduces risk for some cancers
Get Started
Being physically active means choosing programs and activities that work. The following links provide useful resources to consider when getting started.
- Seven Benefits of Regular Physical Activity (Mayo Clinic)
- Physical Activity Basics (CDC)
- Breaking Free of All-Or-Nothing-Mindset (American Council on Exercise)
- Elements of an Effective Exercise Program (American Council on Exercise)
Stay Motivated
Finding the motivation to stick with a physical activity plan can be a challenge at times. While motivation is unique to each individual, the many rewards are universal and include benefits to academic performance, energy level, mood, and immune function. The following links provide some helpful resources for maintaining motivation:
- Exercise to Reduce Symptoms of Anxiety and Depression (American Council on Exercise)
- Staying Motivated for Fitness (Mayo Clinic)
- Exercise Motivation...for Stress Reduction (Go Ask Alice!)
- Is Soreness a Good Indicator of a Good Workout? (Go Ask Alice!)
*According to the National College Health Assessment, administered to the Columbia student community in Spring 2023