We all have those lazy days when, after finishing a day at Uni, there is nothing you want to do more than lie on your bed and watch Netflix. It feels nice and it is good for you to relax. But in the long run, what will give you more energy than that is some good exercise, not to mention it is a great stress-reliever. I know that is hard to make yourself leave the house, but it really is worth it. Here are some tips for making the process of persuading yourself to work out less painful.

Make a sports date with a friend

If you make a commitment to meet a friend to work out together you are more likely to complete your plan. You don’t want to let them down right? If you join a sports team with regular practices it is a good social opportunity too. You will find people with similar interests and have a reason more for exercise.

Buy gym membership

This was my tactic this year, and it is working out quite well I would say. Spending money on something is what works well for me as a method of persuasion. CSE gym offers some good deals for students, and its facilities are great. Everyone can find something for themselves, there are treadmills, bikes, squash rooms, weights, two climbing walls and many other activities. They organise 104 free classes every week! You really have no excuse to miss out. Here is their timetable for this semester.

Find the right activity for you

The most persuasive thing that will get you moving is an activity that you enjoy. Visit the Sports fair, there is one at the start of each semester, you can talk to members of all the different societies our Sports Union offers, and find out when and where their practices are, and whether or not they would suit you. You can try out the taster sessions that societies and clubs are hosting at the beginning and during every semester. There are also EDex one-off events, where you can try out an activity without commitment.

Get up, and get moving!