What do libraries, lecture halls and desk computers have that a gym doesn’t? Students. Yes, it’s very important for people to “hit the books,” but it’s also important to live a healthy life and that doesn’t mean just dieting.
A study conducted at the American Intercontinental University states that there are many valid reasons why having at least 15 minutes of exercise is beneficial to one’s life. Those reasons include exercises that: stimulate brain cell development, improve memory retention, increase focus and concentration, boost mood and relieve stress.
Moorpark College offers many classes for physical education from learning in the books about nutrition, health and stress management to yoga and basketball classes.
“School work gets extremely heavy at times, but I take my exercise just as serious,” said Shane Dorriz, an 18-year-old business major. “I workout my body as much as my mind.”
Exercise courses offered at Moorpark vary from 1 to 4 units. So whether it is mandatory credits or just having an extra boost to transfer, you should look into your requirements just to be sure, but if you do encounter these opportunities, might as well take advantage of enjoying wearing comfortable clothes and feeling good about how you look.
Sydney Robinson, 19-year-old criminal justice major, earned units taking physical education classes at the college.
“Benefits for taking classes at Moorpark would mean you are expanding your mind and brain,” said Robinson. “Essentially Moorpark, will keep your mind and body entertained and working when on campus.”
According to kidshealth.org, adults need at least 150 minutes of cardio once a week and muscle-strengthening activities twice a week. Meanwhile, kids and teens should have 60 minutes or more of physical activity everyday.
Head Coach of Track & Field and health and conditioning teacher at Moorpark College, Traycie Kephart agrees with college courses as a way of improving your health.
“Moorpark College offers a lot of great P.E., fitness and sports classes for the cost of units– now that’s a bargain!” said Kephart. “Try it and you might even see a boost in your grades.”
At Moorpark, you don’t have to be a professional weight lifter or NBA player to excel in the fitness classes. The teachers and equipment are specifically there to help provide for your health and education.
Exercise can really be anything that gets your body moving and your heart-rate up. Whether it’s walking, running, swimming, riding a bike, using exercise equipment, taking exercise classes, etc. All these activities are the best way to identify if you are doing something that breaks a sweat.
So you don’t have to make time for exercise, but when earning college credits, the time is set-up for you. You should join a fitness class, or any program that is accessible and affordable to you.