As a senior in high school I looked forward to college, but there was one thing in the back of my head. People would say, "Have you seen Hannah?! She has gotten so big -- the freshman 15 must be real!" Let me just tell you, it is a real thing. Your first year of college, your body will definitely start to look different unless you do some sort of ninja workout, which is highly unlikely. Our bodies change for all different reasons, and it is not because we are all couch potatoes!
1. You begin to experience life as an adult
When you get to college, you find out what it is like to fend for yourself. Most students get a job and go to school for their daily routine. Along with experiencing life as an adult, you have to eat, meaning you eat when you can and it may not be the healthiest choice. Having a busy schedule often means a quick pick up of fast food for most. Your employer is having a get together tonight for John's birthday and that means cake, so you obviously have to eat a piece. Experiencing life as an adult is definitely fun, but food is attached to it whether you like it or not.
2. Stress, stress, and more stress
The amount of stress you are faced with during college is almost unbearable, but somehow you learn to cope with it. Some weeks it does not even matter how well you manage your time; it is just impossible to study as much as you intended. Oh, and professors make it super convenient for you by scheduling their tests on the same day. Good luck with three tests in a day and a paper due at 4 p.m. Talk about stress!
3. You study all the time
You will study all the time if you want good grades and if you do study all the time, your grades will show it. Studying is not the ideal “physical activity” because you are usually sitting down. I do not remember the last time I studied and got up to do some burpees during my study session, probably because it never happened. Personally I do not think that studying and working out go together.
4. The cafe is really easy to get to
Your freshman year you will most likely have to live on campus. This means your kitchen area may be morsel sized or you may not have one at all. The cafe serves food all day long so you never really have to cook for yourself. Swipe your card and grab a meal; it is pretty easy! This is the best part about living on campus, for most.
Freshman year is an absolute blast but do not let your body get out of control; it happens quicker than we think it will. Manage yourself and your body while feeding yourself healthy options. Work out when you can and try not to forget to do it. Remember, your school has a fitness complex for you to use. Stay healthy, smart and strong!
