Together Promoting Ability to Study - physical activity supports learning and student wellbeing

Have you already met the For better Study Ability characters who appear on info screens, lecture slides, or on campus tables? These characters explore different perspectives on study wellbeing. The autumn themes are exercise, eating, and sleep. Take a moment to stop by the images and discuss the topics with your fellow students. Let’s build study wellbeing together!

  1. “Studying isn’t all about sitting silently”
    The lecture hall seat won’t reward you for sitting still. Take a short break, stand up, do a quick lap around the corridor – your brain will thank you, and your body will cheer!
    Moving during the study day is like recharging your brain – it improves concentration, alertness, and learning. Even small active breaks can prevent the downsides of sitting and support your endurance. Exercise also relieves stress, promotes recovery, and helps you sleep better. When the body moves, the mind clears – and studying feels lighter.
  2. “Exercise recharges your batteries – it doesn’t drain them”
    15 minutes of movement = more energy than a cup of coffee (and no caffeine).
    Regular physical activity keeps both body and mind in balance – it boosts your energy, helps you focus, and improves memory. When you move, stress decreases, your mood lifts, and sleep quality improves. When your fitness supports everyday demands, studying becomes easier, too. Exercise isn’t about performance – it’s part of a restorative daily routine!
  3. “Stretch your body throughout the day”
    A short stretch break > an energy snack. It helps you recover now and sleep better later. Try it and see!
    Taking breaks and managing your alertness help you cope with study routines – they prevent overload, improve focus, and support learning. When you pause and pay attention to your own resources, you reduce the risk of exhaustion, stress, and low mood. Small moments of rest don’t take time away – they give it back.

Let’s embrace this autumn with staying physically active! Read more of OK! – Together Promoting Ability to Study Campaign (ok.yths.fi). 

Best regards,
Metropolia Student Wellbeing Services and FSHS Student Health Care

Written by
Study Psychologist Antti Äijänen

A character is doing squats while someone asks them to help them raise a bench.