Life As a Vet Student: Health and Fitness

By Chelsea Mason

Virginia-Maryland Regional College of Veterinary Medicine

Fitness has always been a huge part of my life, and it has become even more important to me since I started veterinary school.  Going to the gym helps me relieve stress, and it is the one extracurricular activity that I make sure I make time for every day.   I go straight from class to the gym in the evening, which gives me a nice mental break in between class and homework. On days when I just don’t have enough time to get in a full workout, I will do mini-workouts in between tasks.  I may study for 30 minutes, do some push-ups and sit-ups, and then start studying again. Whether I work out before or during my studies, I’ve found that I focus much better and can retain more information after some type of physical activity.  

The weekends are a great opportunity for me to let off some steam, and there’s no better way to do it than getting out and getting back to nature.  Whenever the weather permits, I try to get out and hike or bike, or even just take a long walk around the neighborhood.  After sitting in a classroom all week and hardly seeing the light of day, the sunlight and fresh air can be quite therapeutic.   No matter what it is that you like to do; swimming, running, kayaking, whatever it is, make sure that you make time for it!  The best way to keep your mind focused is to do what my biochemistry professor refers to as “sharpening the ax.” By taking a little bit of time to take care of yourself, you’ll keep your mind sharp and ready to tackle that week of labs, exams, and quizzes.