Last Updated on 20 January 2026 by Colette
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Now that we are headfirst into this final furlong of secondary school life and the exam period is underway, it would be really easy for Ben to stay shut up in his bedroom with his face in a book – actually, that’s a lie, it wouldn’t be really easy for him – it would take a lot of pushing from me and some serious procrastination from him. What it would be really easy for him to do though is to move seamlessly from revision to Xbox on a daily basis without making time to get outside in the fresh air (especially as he doesn’t especially love the summer months thanks to his hay fever and fragile ginger skin).
I’m super keen that for both his fitness and his mental health, Ben keeps himself moving during this exam period. The Rugby Union season has finished which frees up quite a bit of time for additional revision / relaxation but obviously he doesn’t want to lose the strength and fitness he has built up over the season. We’ve set up his revision timetable around boxing training twice a week and then sticking his walking boots on and getting a few miles under his belt on a weekend to offset all those hours sat hunched over an exam desk or in his room studying.
Five reasons to make time for exercise when you have exams:
Exercise boosts brain power
Exercise increases blood flow to the brain, helping you concentrate better, process information faster, and retain more – all key during revision.
Exercise reduces stress and anxiety
Exams can be overwhelming, but moving your body helps release endorphins (feel-good hormones) that ease tension and improve your mood (in this instance I think it’s probably me that needs to up the exercise rather than Ben as he’s currently pretty chill!) Taking some time away from the books can provide an opportunity for an emotional check-in too.
Regular exercise improves sleep quality
Regular physical activity can help you fall asleep faster and enjoy deeper sleep, meaning you’re better rested and ready to tackle your next revision session or exam.
Exercise increases energy levels
Although it sounds counter intuitive, a quick workout can actually leave you feeling more energised, not less, helping you to stay alert and productive (I found Ben face down, fast asleep on a past paper the other week!)
Gives Your Mind a Break
Stepping away from the books and heading out for a walk, run, or gym session gives your brain the pause it needs to recharge and come back ready to focus. If you can get outside to do it in the fresh air then all the better.
Have a read of this post next:
Keeping sane on the countdown to GCSEs
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