Active April is here! Discover simple ways to stay active
April is your sign to shake off the study slump and move your body in a way that works for you. No pressure, just small, consistent movement that fits into your day.
We know uni life gets busy, but committing to just 30 minutes of movement a day can make a real difference. It can boost your energy, lift your mood, improve your sleep, and help you stay focused when it’s time to study. Even the small things count, like walking between classes or taking a quick stretch break.
Supporting the Victorian Government’s Get Active Victoria campaign, Active April is all about helping you build a simple habit that feels doable. With a mix of free and low-cost activities available throughout the month, it’s easier than ever to get moving.
What’s on for Active April
You don’t have to figure it out alone. We’ve lined up plenty of ways to help you get started, stay motivated, and maybe even meet some new people along the way. You could:
- Join a Walk ‘n’ Talk session at Burwood, Waurn Ponds or Waterfront and get your steps in while having a casual chat
- Try a nature walking meditation at Burwood to slow things down and reset your mind
- Swing by our pop-up Active April stalls for a quick challenge and a free prize
- Jump into free online pilates and yoga sessions with Deakin Active from wherever you are
- Get involved in social and casual sport like dodgeball, basketball, badminton, volleyball, table tennis or even pickleball
- Trial to represent the Deakin Dragons at the UniSport nationals through DUSA if you’re feeling competitive
- Res students can join in on Res activities like a 9-square tournament, a Dandenong Ranges trip, or a college netball comp (book through the res portal)
Whether you’ve got five minutes or a full afternoon, there’s something for you.
👉 Keep an eye out for the range of events and register on the Get Active April webpage.
Move your way (no gym required)
Not a gym person? No worries. Active April is about moving in ways that feel good, not forcing yourself into something you don’t enjoy. Here are a few easy ideas to get you started:
- Put on a playlist and go for a walk around campus or your neighbourhood
- Try a quick at-home workout on YouTube
- Do a few sets of star jumps or stretches between study blocks
- Join a DUSA sport or recreation club for something social and fun
- Spend some time outside, even gardening or kicking a ball around
If you want a bit more structure, check out the “30 for 30” activity list from Get Active Victoria. You can generate a random list of activities and tailor it to suit your vibe for the month.
And if you are keen on a gym, Deakin Active has you covered with affordable options plus a special Active April offer. You can grab 30 days for $30 (or $15 at Warrnambool), and every sign-up goes into the draw to win a $100 Rebel Sport voucher.
Try the Move 30 challenge in DeakinWELLBEING
If you like a little extra motivation, we’ve got you. Head to the DeakinWELLBEING app and join the Move 30 for Active April challenge. The goal is simple: move your body for 30 minutes a day and see how you feel by the end of the month.
But the app is more than just a challenge. It’s designed to support you, wherever you’re at. Inside the app, you can:
- Build and track healthy habits so you can stay consistent over time
- Access tools to help you manage stress and navigate challenging moments
- Explore interactive content like videos and podcasts to boost your focus, energy and mood
- Find support services and resources at Deakin when you need them
- Discover opportunities and programs that support your success
It’s there for you 24/7, whether you’ve got five minutes between classes or you’re looking for something to help you reset at the end of the day. Using DeakinWELLBEING regularly can help you stay on track, build positive habits, and take a more proactive approach to your wellbeing across the trimester.
A healthier way to cope with stress
Uni can be a lot. Deadlines, exams, life admin, everything in between. Finding healthy ways to manage stress and stay focused can make a big difference. Regular movement is one of those tools. It can help clear your head, improve your mood, and support your overall wellbeing.
It also plays a role in helping you make informed, healthy choices. While things like vaping are often marketed as a way to cope with stress, the reality is more complex. Building habits like regular movement can be a more effective way to support your focus and energy day to day.
If you’re curious to learn more about the harms of vaping, or you’re looking for support to cut back or quit, you can explore the Vape-Free Deakin webpage. It includes information, tools and pathways to confidential, non-judgemental support when you’re ready.
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