Getting Fit on Campus

Are you aiming for a healthier lifestyle this summer? A great place to begin is by adding more physical activity into your daily routine. As a Ryerson employee working in the heart of the city, there are many ways to get active on and around campus.

Turn your commute into exercise
Whether you live in the city or the GTA there are many ways to turn your commute into a form of exercise. Try walking or riding your bike to work or your local transit station. If you're one of the many Ryerson employees who travel into the city via Union Station, skip the subway and walk to campus. Worried about the weather? Toronto's underground PATH has a route that runs all the way from Union station to Yonge and Dundas square.

The Recreation and Athletic Centre (RAC)
Located near the south entrance of the Quad, the RAC offers a discounted membership for alumni, staff and faculty as well as the immediate family members of Ryerson affiliates. With access to a weight room, cardio room, pool and track, RAC members have a wide variety of facilities to choose from. If you're new to the gym scene or feel that you need some guidance, the RAC offers many instructional classes such as aquatics, dance, group exercise, mind/body/spirit and sport. These classes are taught by certified professionals who are great motivators and can provide proper fitness education. If you want the opportunity to get active and meet new people on campus the RAC's intramural sports may be a great option.

Find your style of yoga
Practicing yoga is a great way to get your mind and body prepared to take on the challenges life presents. Yoga and meditation can relieve stress and muscle tension along with improving your confidence and outlook on life. If you're new to yoga or are having trouble finding a style of yoga that is right for you, you may want to consider a Passport to Prana. This $30 passport allows you to partake in one yoga class at each of the participating yoga studios across Toronto and the GTA (there are almost 70 participating studios).

Incorporate short stints throughout the day

• Take the stairs instead of the elevator or escalator.
• Visit the Quad during you break or lunch hour, walking a few laps around the quad can be a great way to clear your mind, relieve tension and take in some fresh air.
• Park farther away from campus and walk briskly to work.
• Speed walk by pumping your arms and increasing your pace.
• Choose a farther break location to lengthen your walking distance.