If you think that working out and eating healthy is hard throughout college, you are right. It is difficult to find time to go to the gym, and get your workout in, but it is not impossible. It is difficult to find time to cook dinner, and eat breakfast, but it is not impossible! I know for me, the freshman 15 was an actual fear I possessed. I avoided it by staying active, and eating healthy. Staying in shape has more benefits than you think. For example, better mental health, reduced amounts of stress, creativity, better health, and better energy levels. Who wouldn't want that?
So you're probably wondering.. how do I even get started? I have the answers you need!
Start slow. If you are not used to working out, you want to start slow so you do not hurt yourself, or over work your body. You will also want to start slow with changing your eating habits because it takes time to create a new habit! Cold turkey won't cut it!
Be easy on yourself. Progress and results will not be immediate. If you are working out, and eating healthy you are doing amazing. Be proud of yourself. Some days you will be incredibly motivated, others it will be harder to get up and get active. If you want to eat worse than usual, that is okay!
My advice is to eat three times a day, and drink 2 liters of water. Do not skip meals. That will be hard on your body, and your mind. Create a workout routine to keep you on track while you are at the gym. Sometimes you can find yourself aimlessly wandering around the gym not knowing what to do. Make sure to hold yourself accountable! Drink lots and lots of water while you're at the gym to ensure you do not get dehydrated! Try to workout 3-5 days a week. That will keep you in great shape, and you will see progress quicker. If you do not want to workout 3-5 days a week no worries at all! Do what makes you feel good, and be proud of yourself for getting to the gym. Try to incorporate cardio, and weight training into your workouts. Building muscle is the move.
Make a workout playlist to keep you upbeat, and hype while you are killing those machines, and treadmill. I promise a good playlist will ALWAYS make a workout better. Try to find music that makes you feel awesome, and excited.
I bought a new workout outfit when I started so I would feel good about myself when I was at the gym. It helps boost confidence, and excitement about starting your new lifestyle!
Good luck, and kill it.
Photo found on Pixabay Images (Skeeze, Running Runner) https://pixabay.com/photos/running-runner-long-distance-573762/
