When it comes to college life, it’s easy to get carried away with the endless options of food at the dining hall, sweet treats, and even drinking some calories at parties. But it doesn’t have to be a difficult experience with a harsh diet to stay fit in college and avoid the “freshman fifteen.” As a quick disclaimer though, these ten tips are from my own experience and I am not a professional in this area; nor am I promising that you will lose a lot of weight. These are just some simple tips that may help you in your health journey through college.
1. Walk
Anywhere. Everywhere. Walking instead of using a skateboard, bicycle, or scooter can serve as a great alternative to running. If you’re not at the level of running, or if your joints can’t handle the jarring movements, walking is a great, calming way to burn some calories and get some fresh air.
2. Stairs
In any building you come across, if an elevator is available, try to avoid the temptation to use it. You may be tired from walking, but using the stairs will burn some extra calories, and it gives you a higher sense of accomplishment when you finally reach your destination–like conquering a mountain climb.
3. Dedicate Time
Along with having a good work ethic, you should plan to work out or go to the gym for at least one hour a day. Or if you’re just starting out, go to the gym at least 3 days out of the week. Those muscles aren’t going to gain themselves!
4. Avoid Temptations
It’s easier said than done, but when you’re passing the cookies in the dining hall, think twice, and maybe grab an apple instead. However, there’s some leeway with this tip. One cookie won’t make you gain 5 pounds. But it’s important to watch your eating habits for the exact reason that it doesn’t become a habit.
5. Gym Buddy
If you lack motivation to go to the gym by yourself, it might help to find a support group or have a gym buddy to go with you. Not only will this give you motivation to go to the gym more often, it will also help you feel more comfortable.
6. Try
It’s easy to get discouraged when faced with trying something new, but I urge you to keep an open mind. Try a new type of exercise, try to beat your personal record, try new healthy foods! You may find a new favorite hobby or snack!
7. Group Exercises
If your gym offers any kind of group exercises, I highly encourage you to try them out! Even if you think that Zumba or cycling class may not be your thing, it can’t hurt to give it a go. Don’t knock it ‘til you try it! You could wind up finding your new favorite exercise!
8. WATER
I cannot stress this enough: DRINK WATER! And lots of it! The average human body is about 60% water, so it only makes sense to replenish that liquid in your body to ensure everything is working correctly, and to give you the fuel that you need to carry on with your day. Instead of grabbing that Coke or Monster, have water! Find a way to incorporate drinking at least 5 or 6 glasses of water a day. Technically the average body needs eight 8oz glasses of water a day to be sufficiently hydrated, but that can be a lot when you’re first starting out. I suggest having water with every meal, snack, and in between. Buy a canteen or Camelbak bottle to keep water with you wherever you go.
9. Stay Cautious
When it comes to your diet, keep track of what you’ve been eating recently. You don’t necessarily have to go to the lengths of having a journal (unless that will personally help you), but it’s important to just pay attention to your eating habits–more importantly, your portion sizes. Even when you’re eating a lot of fruits and veggies, sometimes too much of a good thing can be a bad thing. Try to find a balance in your diet, and do some research on the right portion sizes for your body.
10. Dress the Part!
Last, but certainly not least, is your wardrobe! It may sound a bit cliché, but finding some cute and comfy workout clothes can make the world of a difference. Not only will you feel comfortable in the proper clothes that were designed for movement and absorbing sweat, you will also feel a confidence boost! Find the right gear that will make you feel the cutest and most confident that you can be. Nothing can stop you!
