Going away to college is a big change to experience. For most of us, It is our first time living on our own and having to make choices for ourselves. We don’t have our parents making us healthy home cooked meals or a set routine like we are used to from high school. Some may see this as “freedom” where they can finally eat and do whatever they want, but those unhealthy choices will definitely catch up to you and you may be left experiencing the freshman 15.
First let’s talk about the dining hall. With so many options from pizza to french fries to pasta, why would you even think to get anything else? These choices can be tempting, especially if all of your friends are getting them too, but your diet is one of the most important factors in staying fit in college. Here are some tips you should follow for eating healthy in the dining hall.
Photo credits: Ally Foley
Something that a lot of students also face is no longer participating in extra curricular activities such as sports, that have kept them in shape all of high school. It is important to make sure you are keeping active in order to stay fit. Here at Rowan, there are two fitness centers available to students for free with your student ID. Since it is free you have no excuses not to make use of it! Another great part about the gyms on campus is their long hours. Monday-Thursday the gym is open from 7am to 11pm, with slightly shorter hours on weekends. This makes it easy to fit a nice workout session into anyones schedule. Check here to see often you should work out each week to stay in shape.
So we know that working out and eating healthy is key to looking good, but the benefits are endless. Feeling stressed and overwhelmed with change or school work is common in a college students life. Believe it or not, but working out is one of the best ways to relieve stress and boost your happy chemicals known as endorphins. Trust me on this one, increase the amount you workout and you will overall be a happier person.
The last thing I will share to help avoid the dreaded “freshman 15” is to be more conscious of what you are doing in your daily routine. Walk to class instead of drive. Take the stairs instead of the elevator. Drink water instead of calorie filled drinks. Get at least 6 to 8 hours of sleep. Lastly, listen to your body. It is okay to enjoy a burger or some ice cream here and there. It is even recommended by many nutritionists to allow your body a cheat meal. You don’t have to look at these changes as a diet, but as a healthy lifestyle that will overall make you feel and look your best.
Rowan Fit 