Maybe you were luckier, but I could not squeeze any time during finals week to go to the gym at all — I just kept telling myself a 4.0 was more important than a hot bod. (Truthfully, I don't have either of these right now.)
Pro-tip for you fit Longhorns out there: The UT RecSports Center is a significantly better location to get in a good workout than Gregory Gym. (Unless you like not having a bench press available because frat guys crowd together to hog them at Gregory.)
The unfortunate thing about taking a break from working out for too long is that it's extremely hard to get back into it.
Here are 10 things I'm doing to try to get back into shape for the summer. You can try following this list, adding to it, or making your own list!
1. Make one "healthy" food decision every day.
I've been trying to blend a smoothie every morning to kick start my day with delicious fruits! But you could try something really simple, like eating a whole grapefruit once a day or even asking for no whip on your Starbucks frappuccino.
2. Go for a run at least twice a week around your neighborhood or local park.
I've always dreaded the treadmill for a reason. You stay in the same small area for an extended period of time and have the same boring view (unless someone attractive decides to start working out in front of you).
My middle school cross country coach once said, "Running on the treadmill is not real running." So go outside and run!
3. Take a yoga or spin class.
My favorite way to stay fit in Austin, besides lifting weights at the Rec, was to attend classes at Black Swan Yoga. (If you want to take a class here, I highly recommend the Flow classes. The Hot Onnit classes will kick your ass if you're not really experienced.)
4. Cut down on the drinks.
Oh, you thought I just meant soda right? No, I mean alcohol too! Alcohol is laced with calories, so being sober over the summer may be a great idea before you ignore this fact during the school year.
5. But definitely don't cut down on water.
It's so hard for me to keep up with the eight glasses a day rule, because water tastes so plain compared to juices and teas.
I've been adding lemon juice to my water lately to motivate me to drink more of it. Lemons also contain citric acids, which are great for cleansing your kidneys!
6. Find a workout challenge on Pinterest.
Pinterest has several great ideas, including workout plans so you don't have to think up of your own. Just try to actually do the workouts instead of staying on Pinterest and looking at cute shoes.
7. Find a friend to work out with.
Two heads (and set of muscles) are better than one! It's easier to stay motivated when you have a friend holding you accountable.
8. Stay active outside of the gym.
It will keep your blood circulating if you just do little things, like squeezing in some crunches during commercials or taking the stairs instead of the elevator.
9. Once you have a goal, stay committed to it.
Don't commit halfway, go hard or go home!
10. Have a good mental attitude.
When in doubt, choose happiness. It will keep you motivated to work out. And when you actually do work out, exercise releases endorphins to make you happier!
