The gym is a great place to keep fit. But it can also be expensive, time draining and simply impractical, especially as Exeter’s main gyms are situated in town, a good walk away from most student living areas. Of course, there’s the University gym, but who really wants to face Forum hill any more times than necessary? If you find yourself craving those endorphins that exercise provides but perhaps don’t have the funds or the time for the gym, do not fear! All you need is a laptop and access to YouTube and you’re good to go.
YouTube is overflowing with workout videos of any category- there is no longer a need for Davina McCall’s and Lorraine Kelly’s overpriced workout DVDs (did anyone ever even buy these?). HIIT (high intensity interval training) workouts are a great place to start- search ‘PMA Fitness’ to find Faisal, a YouTube coach, performing a 20-minute workout for you to follow along with. He recommends just one video a day, four or five days a week, to build strength, tone up and burn fat. His energetic and positive attitude will also keep you amused and motivated throughout the workout (PMA stands for Positive Mental Attitude, after all).
there is no longer a need for Davina McCall’s and Lorraine Kelly’s overpriced workout DVDs
Another charming YouTuber who provides short HIIT workouts, alongside various muscle strengthening workouts, is Joe Wicks, found under ‘The BodyCoach TV’. Wicks’ cockney twanged inspiration will spur you on to complete the challenging 15-20-minute workouts: try one of his ‘abs blaster’ videos for a quick, high energy session that will set your core on fire.
If strength and conditioning isn’t your thing, YouTube is also great for other forms of exercise, such as yoga. Try ‘Yoga with Adrienne’- with over 3 million subscribers, you can guarantee a relaxing and fun yoga session. She specialises in yoga workouts to suit different moods and conditions, such as her yoga for anxiety or yoga for back pain.
All of these professional and enjoyable workouts can be accessed for free from your own bedroom, and take minimal time, meaning they can be squeezed in to even the busiest day. Exercise has so many benefits for your mental and physical health; it can improve mood and even help you sleep better. Give these YouTubers a go and see for yourself.
