Boosting Your Energy During the Winter
Maintaining an active lifestyle is crucial for both mental and physical well-being, especially during grad school.
Not only does exercise boost productivity, but it also helps to clear your mind and improve focus. There is evidence that routinely exercising makes our bodies more efficient and increases certain hormone levels, making us feel more energized!
During the winter, when sunlight becomes scarce, I especially need that extra burst of energy to keep me going—whether it’s powering through experiments or meal prepping for the week. That’s why I’ve put together a list of places where you can stay active around Rochester!
Rochester Community Sports Complex
- Futsal: Located at the Trenton and Pamela Jackson R-Center. Sign-up as teams for 5v5 games. Check the schedule for availability during fall and spring (Free).
Rochester Sport Garden (RSG)
- Soccer: RSG runs high-intensity 5v5 leagues on synthetic turf, with divisions at different skill levels and a coed option. It’s a great place for both seasoned and newer players. The leagues run five days a week at affordable rates. If you don’t have a team, RSG offers a “free agent” list so individuals can join teams in recreational divisions.
- Basketball: Their basketball programs include 4v4 leagues held three times per week, ideal whether you’re competitive or just want some casual court time. The pricing is reasonable, and there are divisions for different skill levels. Table tennis: RSG hosts the Genesee Valley Table Tennis Club, open daily. They offer open play, private coaching, leagues, tournaments, summer camps, and more.
Total Sport Experience (TSE)
- Soccer: TSE offers year-round adult recreational and league soccer. Their indoor turf fields (and outdoor options when weather allows) support men’s, women’s, and co-ed teams. If you don’t have a full team, they also offer pick-up style 7-week sessions, where participants register individually and teams are formed weekly.
- Basketball: Join weekly pick-up basketball games in 4-week sessions. You register as an individual and, each week, the group is divided into teams for full games. This is a recreational (REC) level format. Fun and inclusive, with all skill levels welcome.
Central Rochester Gym
- Climbing and Bouldering: Indoor climbing walls with regular updates on “tracks.” Monthly subscription to be a member to access training and equipment, and it also has the option of a day pass if you want to take a look. A great full-body workout experience!
- Yoga & Gym: Different classes cater to different preferences, offering a variety of experiences so you can choose one that best suits you. It is free for members, but payment options are available for non-members. Good opportunity to breathe and relax!
Hot Shots
Volleyball: They offer both hard and sand courts, which are available during the winter. Join as a team or an individual for leagues, tournaments, and themed events (everything from live-music nights to “Babies vs. Boomers”). Definitely, you're going to have a great time.