If it's your first year or your senior year, there are a lot of factors going against you when it comes to staying healthy: classes, fast food, stress, and lack of sleep.
But staying active and healthy isn't impossible!
Many students go off to college and can stay in shape (or even get in better shape than when they left!) Here are some easy ways for college students to stay fit.
1. Walk wherever you can.
College campuses can be massive! And most colleges offer a shuttle system that you can use to get up the street or to the other side of campus. But ditching the busses or your car and walking around campus is a great way to get your steps in!
If your dorm is a 20-minute walk to your furthest class, 20-minutes there and 20-minutes back are 40-minutes of exercise you got in without even stepping foot in the gym! (Just make sure you have comfortable shoes!)
2. Make the most of campus resources.
While there are plenty of buffets and places to sit, your college will also have a ton of perks on (and off) campus that you can use to your advantage! Head over to your college's rec center, sign up for a PE or some exercise-based elective, or sign up for some on-campus exercise classes.
If those aren't possible or just don't work for you, scout out a
nearby fitness center or club sports team to join. (It's a great way to meet some new friends too!)
3. Study while you exercise.
Between exams, quizzes, and projects, your class schedule can make finding time to exercise a little chaotic. So why not do both at the same time?
Bring your notes or a textbook to the gym and plop it on the console of your
favorite cardio machine. This isn't just a sneaky way to get some alone time to study, but it also improves your ability to multitask.
And did we mention that exercise is an AWESOME way to improve your memory? Talk about a win-win!
5. Find workouts you can do at home.
Clear out a small space in your room and pick a workout you can knock out quickly in the comfort of your own space.
6. Plan classes around your ideal routine.
An easy way to make sure you have time to exercise is to plan your classes so there aren't too many hurdles between you and the gym.
If you like exercising in the mornings, try and opt for a class time that lets you sneak in a workout beforehand.
If you like exercising in the afternoons, try to find a time slot that is early enough to power through a workout and still have the energy for activities that can leave you feeling drained.
7. Don't forget the basics!
Sometimes the easiest way to stay healthy is to get back to basics!
Make sure that you're getting enough sleep each night. Carry a water bottle to refill throughout the day to stay hydrated (the water in that third cup of coffee isn't enough!) Enjoy comfort foods when you need them, but don't forget to incorporate vegetables and nutrient-rich foods into your daily diet.
Adding small, simple healthy habits into your daily routine will help your fitness physically and mentally!
Remember...
College life can get a little crazy, and you learn a lot. But the most important thing you need to know as you start living on your own is how to take care of yourself.
Stick to a regimen, make healthy choices, and enjoy all the benefits of staying healthy during your college years!