“Best” and “gym” may not be two words you typically associate with each other, but the pain of leaving your bed and the company of Netflix does not always have to be so difficult. Here are some of the benefits of finally motivating yourself to hit the elliptical and medicine ball.

1. You radiate an athletic aura

Not all of us are Division I athletes, but you don’t have to be wear an official jersey to be athletic. This may be your first time making it to the gym in two weeks, but no one needs to know that! Hit the treadmill with confidence and no one will doubt your ability to keep up with those sprints and ball drills the teams are doing.

2. It clears your head

After long days in the classroom and long nights in the library, getting a good run in can do wonders to give you a fresh perspective on things. Elle Woods wasn’t lying when she said exercise releases endorphins, which make us happier in general. Tired and frustrated from spending three hours on a paper? Take a break at the gym and return feeling more relaxed and calm.

3. One word: Lululemon

Going the gym doesn’t have to be solely about the working out part- it also is a wonderful opportunity to showcase the new headband or leggings you bought last week. Finally, a chance to show off the products you spent more money on than you can actually afford to spend.

4. You won't feel bad about indulging later

Burning a few hundred calories decreases the guilt you may feel later when indulging in a dessert (or seven)... even if you didn’t actually burn more calories than you ended up eating. Well, it’s the thought that counts!