With the spontaneity and unpredictability of college, it’s hard to stick to a schedule that keeps you consistently healthy. Here are some simple, easy ways to take care of yourself and build habits when it’s hard!
1. Prioritize.
Your schedule in college is centered around making time for what matters, and exercise is no different. If you get into a routine of making working out and preparing healthy food for yourself, it will become a habit.
2. Get a buddy.
Everything is easier with someone to hold you accountable- fitness included. When someone is there to motivate and challenge you, you end up holding yourself to a higher standard as well.
3. Cook.
This isn't everyones favorite tip, but this doesn't mean learn how to prepare a five-star meal. Cooking can be as easy as looking up a how-to for a healthy, protein-packed meal on the internet and following about five steps. This saves you money, as well as you’re sure of everything that you’re putting in your body.
4. Sleep.
This definitely isn't everyone’s favorite tip either, and probably the one that warrants the most excuses. “I have too much work,” “I have too much to do this week,” “I’ll take a nap later,” are common phrases, but just like exercise has to be a priority, so does sleep. Not staying up late and sleeping until noon the next day sleep, but going to bed at a sensible time and waking up in the morning sleep. You’ll feel better and your body will thank you for it.
5. Walk.
Every once in a while, wear your tennis shoes to campus and skip the bus.
6. Take an exercise class.
Not only is this a great way to maintain the buddy system, but it’s also fun. From relaxing yoga to a high-energy spin class, there’s something to satisfy everyone.
7. Actually eat breakfast.
This is another not-so-popular habit, and excuse me for being the nagging mom, but it really is the most important meal of the day. It starts your metabolism and gives you more energy early on to use throughout the day.
8. Try not to eat out late.
This falls into the category of making your health a priority; don’t put off eating until you’re absolutely starving late at night. You can even do so much as to plan out your meals a week ahead of time, but start small by planning out the day.
9. Drink water.
Start small again by just replacing a sugary drink with water instead every once in a while, and this will become a habit that grows with time.
10. Remember that laughter burns calories.
Don’t worry if every once in a while you miss the gym or eat breadsticks with your roommates at midnight. Keep your health in mind, but don’t let it control you and keep you from treating yourself because nothing is too bad in moderation. The little unhealthy pleasures are an important part of life, so delight yourself in them.
