Academics and Athletics: Getting Active!

Hey guys, whats up? I thought I'd take some time to share my personal experience and opinion about athletics and getting active.

There are numerous advantages to participating in a sport, one of which is exercise. You get a good workout, and studies show that if you're mentally and physically exhausted (from working those crazy math problems and working out), you get a better night's sleep. I can attest to this: I still find it hard to fall asleep when I'm not physically drained. If I had a good workout during the day, I fall asleep as soon as I hit my bed.

Athletics are also a good way to meet new people. It opens you up to a whole new sphere of people and friends. I met some of coolest and goofiest people I know on track and field.

In reality, athletics are not for everyone. Nevertheless, it is important to just get out and exercise. Anything to get you moving--chasing your dog around the house, playing with younger siblings, a quick bike ride--will allow you to enjoy life more.

However, if you can find a sport that you like and feel comfortable with, it will be very beneficial in the long run. If you feel like life is a chore, or just an endless stream of homework, sports may add some needed variety to your life. Don't worry about not having enough time; right now, as a junior, I'm managing all honors and AP classes, running varsity track and field, and still managing to get to bed before 12AM most nights. In the end, you will find that if you truly invest and dedicate yourself to a sport you enjoy, you will have a much more rewarding high school experience.

-Brian