Let’s be honest; school is stressful. An easy way to relieve tension and conquer the day is exercise. Here are three easy ways to stay active during virtual learning.

1. Take Little Breaks
Sometimes, it feels like classes go on and on forever. Physical Education Teacher Mrs. Teresa Gauthier is a firm believer of stepping away from technology after every class.
“One of the things that worries me is that some kids are sitting from 8:00 to 2:45 every day,” she said.
To avoid sitting for long periods of time, treat yourself and take little breaks.
Between each class, there are five minutes available of free time. Use these few minutes to your advantage. Go grab a snack or simply just say “hi” to your family. Try to get up and stretch your legs.

2. Use Off-Mods/Lunch Breaks Wisely
Off-mods and lunch periods provide a break in between classes for students. This is a wonderful opportunity to squeeze in a 15-minute yoga session in your own room or to take a quick stroll outside.
Sophomore Grace Welzenbach said, “Sometimes, during my off-mods, I just want some fresh air. I usually go for a nice walk with my dogs.”
Try not to waste any more time on technology during these breaks. It is extremely important to get your eyes away from the computer screen for a while.

3. Plan to Exercise After School
Do not start homework directly after school. Give the mind a break and relax. Before schoolwork is started, complete an exercise of your choosing.
It could be as simple as a walk around the neighborhood or as complicated as an intense strength workout.
Have a plan to exercise multiple days after school, and stick to it.
Exercising is beyond important during this time. All students are spending a great deal of time on their computer screens every day. This could cause separate problems such as poor posture and back/neck issues.
Bobby McAvan, a soccer trainer from Maryland Sports Arena and former Baltimore Blast player explained, “Poor posture is common in kids slouching over their desk spending too much time bent over their computers, texting, or playing video games.”