The SRC Can Help Manage Your Stress Levels

Stressed out? Feeling down? The answer to these ails can be found in the BGSU Student Recreation Center.

Exercise provides a healthy way to alleviate distress, or “bad stress,” and at the same time, encourages a healthy lifestyle by promoting eustress, or positive stress which helps the body.

“We want eustress in our life as it adds excitement, zest, and thrills,” explained Dr. David Tobar, an associate professor of Sport Management at BGSU. “Exercise can provide eustress through challenging exercises and the thrill of recreational competition.”

The famous saying “too much of something is not a good thing” also pertains to exercise.

“Moderation is key,” said Tobar. “Athletes and exercisers can take it too far by training/exercising too hard and for too long. If their body does not have a chance to recover, it will begin to break down and symptoms/outcomes include overuse injuries, physiological/performance decrements, and mood disturbance.”

Having social support is another way to relieve stress. It’s documented that people feel better when surrounded by friends and family in social situations. Exercise often involves working with a partner or in some instances, a group or team, to provide the social support necessary to lead a healthy life. Tobar recommends to new exercisers to work out with a partner because not only is it fun and helps relieves stress, it assists you in committing to the program.

The Student Recreation Center (SRC) on campus has something that is sure to peak anyone’s interest. The SRC offers weight training, aerobic equipment including treadmills, stationary bikes, and an indoor track, to basketball and racquetball for competitors or those who are looking for a fun way to exercise. In addition, there is an Olympic-sized swimming pool complete with diving platforms, and a rock climbing wall for those interested in outdoor activities. Group activities are also offered to students who want to try something different like Yoga, Tai Chi, and spin classes, among others.

If you’re new to exercising, Tobar recommends finding an activity that you enjoy. It’s best to start gradually, make sure that you’re performing the exercise safely, wear the right apparel, and consult with your physician to make sure the activity is safe for you.

Whatever your preference is, the SRC and the Department of Recreation and Wellness can help alleviate the distress in your life and provide you with the means to achieve a healthy lifestyle.