The days are shorter, the temperatures are colder—yep, it's winter semester! While it's tempting to stay bundled up indoors all semester, staying active during winter is one of the best ways to boost your energy, manage stress, and feel your best while at class.
Whether you're a gym regular or just trying to move more between classes, here's how BYU-Idaho students can stay active all winter long…
1. Make the Most of an On-Site Gym
One of the easiest ways to keep an active lifestyle year-round, but especially during winter, is to have a gym close to where you live. When the weather is icy and motivation is low, convenience is crucial.
At Cedars Housing, residents have access to a fully equipped gym, so they don't have to brave the cold or drive across town to get a decent workout. A quick lift, cardio session, or stretch between classes can make a huge difference during the winter semester.
Quick winter gym ideas:
30-minute treadmill or bike sessions
Strength training to stay warm and energized
Stretching or mobility workouts to fight stiffness from the cold
2. Build a Simple Winter Workout Routine
Winter is not the time for an overly complicated fitness plan. Keep it realistic and flexible so you'll actually stick with it.
Try this simple approach:
2-3 gym workouts per week
1-2 active rest days (walking, stretching, light movement)
Focus on consistency over intensity
Even short workouts count; showing up is a huge win.
3. Stay Active Between Classes
You don't need a full workout every day to stay active. Small habits add up, especially during winter.
Easy ways to move more on campus:
Walk briskly between buildings
Take the stairs when possible
Do a quick stretch session before or after class
Stand up and move during long study sessions
These little movements help keep your energy up and your body feeling better throughout the day.
4. Try Indoor Activities Around Rexburg
When it's too cold to exercise outside, Rexburg still has plenty of indoor options for BYU-Idaho students.
Some student favorites include:
Group fitness classes or pickup games
Indoor courts and recreation centers
Dance workouts, yoga, or at-home fitness
Workout challenges with roommates
Staying active is more fun when you make it social.
5. Take Care of Your Overall Winter Wellness
Staying active isn't just about workouts; it's about lifestyle habits too.
Here are a few winter wellness tips:
Get enough sleep
Eat balanced meals to fuel your body
Drink water, even when you don't feel thirsty
Get sunlight when possible to boost your mood
6. Choose Student Housing That Supports an Active Lifestyle
Your environment plays a huge role in how active you are. Living in BYU-Idaho-approved housing with modern amenities, like an on-site gym, removes barriers that often keep students from working out during winter.
Cedars Housing is designed with student life in mind, making it easier to stay healthy, motivated, and active even during Rexburg's coldest months.
Ready to Live Somewhere That Supports Your Active Lifestyle?
Cedars Housing offers BYU-Idaho-approved single student housing with modern amenities so you can keep moving, no matter how cold it gets outside. Whether you're lifting, walking on the treadmill, or just trying to build better habits, Cedars Housing makes it easier to stay consistent all semester long.
Explore Cedars Housing today and see why students love living here during the winter.
