1. Start a routine
Something that has really helped me stay in shape is getting into a routine. In the beginning of each week I decide which days I want to dedicate to going to the gym/ working out. You can decide each week how many days you want to go to the gym and dedicate a certain amount of time to each session.
2. Get a gym buddy
This will not only make your workouts more fun but it’ll motivate you to go. Having a gym buddy will give you extra support when you’re feeling especially lazy. Plus, it’s always nice to have a friend by your side at the gym!
3. Cook for yourself
I know when you’re a college student you’re always swamped with homework or class but cooking for yourself can actually be fun! Plus, it doesn’t always have to interfere with your busy schedule. You can always meal prep at the beginning of the week so you don’t even have to think about cooking an hour long meal when you have an exam the next day. Cooking for yourself can also be helpful when the dining hall is serving a not-so-appealing meal.
4. Drink water
Drinking more water is always a good idea. You might feel hungry but sometimes you’re just thirsty and need water. There is also evidence that supports drinking a glass of water before a meal or snack to help you from overeating.
5. Get more sleep
Getting a good night’s sleep is essential to keeping the pounds off. When we don’t have a good night’s sleep our hormones aren’t as regulated. The two hormones that affect our weight gain/loss that are connected to sleep are ghrelin and leptin. When your body is sleep-deprived you produce more ghrelin which tells your body to eat more. Leptin is the hormone that actually tells your body when to stop eating. So when you don’t have a good night’s sleep you actually produce more ghrelin and less leptin.