Health and Fitness Tips for First Year Students

Now that you are in college, you’ve gotten used to living with others, going to class, and managing your time without parents to nag you. These are key elements of college success, but you may decide to strive for control over other aspects of your life as well. Many people arrive at school and find themselves with no set limits on time, activities, or food, bringing me to my first point: the dreaded “freshman fifteen.”

If you are a careful and attentive eater, you will not face these extra pounds. Many freshmen, though, give in to late night, high-calorie eating and gratefully left their last high school P.E. class far behind. These students are well on their way to unwanted weight gain. If you like how you are right now and do not want to change any of your eating or exercise habits, don’t read any further. I do not want to drastically change any lifestyles that do not welcome healthy tips.

But for the rest of you, first consider the food you eat now that you are away from home. Always remember that your body needs all elements of the food pyramid. Many people who try to lose weight tend to cut out carbohydrates completely, but your body needs those as much as it needs protein and fresh fruits and vegetables. Instead, think about portion control. Fill your plate with equal amounts of each – a carbohydrate, a protein, and a fruit or vegetable. I can guarantee you that every day the dining hall has a variety of offerings at lunch and dinner. Eating a balanced diet is definitely the first step to becoming a more healthy college student. The rules apply for both lunch and dinner, although many people like to eat something lighter like a sandwich or salad for lunch. That’s fine, but you should make sure that you are getting all of those groups into your meal.

Now for the exercise … Always remember that your body naturally burns calories from food, so don’t over-exercise! The benefits of exercising a few times a week are numerous: you look and feel stronger, strengthen your immune system, improve blood flow, prevent many types of diseases, and even increase focus. Cardio workouts in the gym or fitness center (run, bike, elliptical) are popular forms of exercise. Check out how busy the machines are in the LFC at any time of day! Thirty minutes of cardio about three to four times a week is all you need to get all those health benefits listed above. Running or walking outside is also a great option (while the weather is nice) and a good way to get the Vitamin D that you need from the sun.

Also, take advantage of all the opportunities offered by the school! Join an intramural team, attend power hour, or go to fitness classes like yoga or zumba. The school offers lots of opportunities including a variety of classes that help students stay fit and aware of their health. An added benefit is meeting new people and developing new skills.

Just follow these easy tips and the benefits will start rolling in sooner than you think…and you will begin to think that taking responsibility for your own health and fitness is just another step towards independence.