It’s February, it’s raining and you do not under any circumstances want to leave your bed to do anything, let alone exercise. But you promised! You promised yourself that this was going to be the year. 2015 would be the year that you would commit to that gym membership that you told your parents you “had to have.” It has only been a month, but you barely recognize that hopeful, goal-driven person you were when the clock struck midnight on Jan. 1. Maybe you have gotten a bit off track, but it is not too late to turn your resolutions into reality.

Besides accomplishing the long-term goal, think about the benefits and rewards you will get along the journey. By going to the gym after class, not only are you closer to your fitness or weight loss goal, but you also get to burn off the stress from the day. According to a study at Purdue University, students who go to the gym at least once a week tend to have a higher GPA then those who do not work out at all. Who would have thought that taking a break from studying could be the way to get the grades you want? With midterms quickly approaching, it is important to handle your stress in a productive way. Scheduling workouts into your day gives your brain time to process all that you have studied as well as keeps you on the path to accomplishing your goals. 

Running on the treadmill day after day can make sticking to your new year’s resolution dreadful. If you are bored of your workout routine, try a class or specialty fitness center. Most gyms offer yoga, Zumba, spinning and other classes throughout the week. These classes are there to inspire you to reach your goals. Heading to the gym will be less of a hassle if you are going to your favorite teacher’s spin class or for an hour of yoga with friends. Make sure you take advantage of all that the gym has to offer. If you feel like you are not getting your money’s worth, try setting up an appointment with a personal trainer. The gym has so much more than the treadmill and elliptical, and it is time to experience all of the amenities.

Throughout the first few months of 2015, evaluate your progress. If you are proud of all that you have accomplished, then keep it up. If you think you could be working harder, then know that it is not too late! It may be overwhelming to think about working towards something for an entire year, so I encourage you to set mini milestones along the way. Whether it is to have a slimmer bikini body for spring break or rock that backless formal dress, accomplishing smaller goals along the way will make the entire resolution feel more attainable. It is easy to get wrapped up in school and make your health the second priority. The outcomes from putting your health and wellness first is sure to outlast any test grade you get in college. You have your GPA for four years, but you have your body forever. 2015 can be the year that you run a half marathon, fall in love with cycling or even lose 10 pounds. With 2015 just beginning, you have the ability to change your habits and routines. Stay motivated and picture yourself on New Year's Day 2016, healthier then ever, looking back on all of the progress.