You've heard rumors of the "Freshman 15," and that it's sooo hard to be healthy in college. While the temptation is almost always in your face to eat greasy food at 3 a.m. and skip the gym for a nap, there are still tons of opportunities to stay healthy. My recommendation to stay active: group fitness classes.

1. It's an excellent form of exercise.

The great thing about the fitness classes that are offered at gyms is that they are specifically designed to get you moving and improve your overall health.

2. There's something for everyone.

From cycle to Zumba, kickboxing to TRX, no matter your interest or ability, there's a class for you!

3. They are scheduled for you.

Knowing that you have a Body Pump class at 4 p.m. on Mondays and Wednesdays means that you can make it part of your schedule, just like your academic classes. Which means, you can't use the excuse "I don't have the extra time."

4. The group atmosphere is motivating.

With ten or twenty guys and gals all doing the moves right along with you it's easy to get caught up in the excitement of the class.

5. They educate you physically.

The instructors of the classes are trained to teach their participants about the exercises they are doing and how they enhance your strength and overall health. The average student walking into the gym wouldn't have this opportunity, so it's a great chance to learn as about your body and your fitness ability.

6. You make friends.

You have the opportunity to meet so many different people that you may not have otherwise. You already have something in common with all of the other participants by going to the same class, which could lead to the creation of a great friendship or a loyal gym buddy.

7. They are fun!

Maybe it's just me, but I cannot stand treadmills, they are so boring I could die (exaggeration). I would much rather dance it out for an hour or pump it out until I no longer can feel my arms. The atmosphere alone in group fitness classes makes workouts seem more social and exciting than any other random machine in the gym.

I really can't say enough good things about getting involved in fitness classes at your school's gym. I've listed a few of my favorite things about them, but really until you sign up and sweat it out, you're not going to truly understand. So bring a buddy and a gallon of water, and get movin.'