Spring break flew by and now we’re overwhelmed with work, upcoming exams, and projects. So, how can you possibly have time to stay fit and eat healthy when all you want to do is skip the gym and eat junk food?
First off, the two things I think about to keep me motivated are fun ways to stay in shape and snacks that are both yummy and healthy.
Staying in shape:
Just make it fun!
One of the great things about Bentley is the extensive green space! And since the weather is beginning to be warm again there should be no excuse to stay indoors.
If you don’t feel like going to the gym on a beautiful day, why not gather a few friends and head to any quad around campus? You and a group of friends could easily set up a volleyball game, play catch, throw a Frisbee around, play some soccer or even head to the tennis or basketball courts and play a game!
But if you feel like doing your own thing, a run around campus can be a perfect idea. The fact that Bentley is on a hill and has oh-so-many stairs is definitely a great benefit if you’re trying to stay fit. Plus, getting some fresh air while running instead of running on a treadmill wouldn’t hurt either.
And, in my opinion, if I include my friends, they always tend to motivate me to stay on top of my daily exercise routine. This of it this way: college kids get stressed and overwhelmed so easily but if you just take some time, stop worrying about your upcoming GB group assignments or exams, and take a quick 30 minute run, you can definitely relieve stress.
Now, what if you get hungry after your 30 minutes of exercise? , What are five perfect snacks that you could have?
My top five snacks would have to be:
1.Peanut butter and whole wheat crackers– They are a great snack combination since peanut butter has protein that helps restore and repair muscle and actually keeps you feeling full longer.
2. Fresh fruits especially blueberries, raspberries, and strawberries –They are high in antioxidants, which helps protect your body from inflammation and free radicals. Berries also keep you feeling full longer because they are loaded with fiber.
3. String cheese– who doesn’t love cheese? This is such a simple and underrated snack. It is high in calcium and low in calories!
4. Nonfat Greek Yogurt- Greek yogurt has twice the protein content of regular yogurts and has all the great sources of vitamins and calcium. It can taste pretty dull and super plain but there is a solution to that! Try adding whatever you like to your yogurt, for example, fresh fruit, granola, or even honey to enjoy more flavors.
5. Make your own Trail Mix– Combination of nuts (preferably almonds), pretzels, whole grain cereal, and raisins or cranberries. You can get creative with this and add any healthy snack. My favorite would be dark chocolate m&ms (in moderation, of course!)
To top off all this exercise and healthy eating tips, be sure to drink lots and lots of water! Try to cut out soda and all those sugary drinks.
Staying motivated,exercising regularly, and eating healthier snacks will allow you to maintain a healthy lifestyle post spring break!
What do you do around campus to get your 30 minute exercise in? Have any healthy creative and fun snack ideas that you love?
Source: (image) http://www.elleandblair.com/post/healthy-habits-my-new-healthy-lifestyle