Ah yes, it’s that time of the year again…spring break! Most of us cannot wait to finish midterms and enjoy the week off in beautiful sunny paradise until we remember that our tight tanks and string bikinis will not be hiding those rolls that developed over the past four months. While trying to be healthier while attaining that perfect beach bod everyone dreams of, our hopeful expectations vs. harsh reality might have played out a little like this…
Expectations: You tell yourself you are going to “start your day right.” You probably try to force some green drink down your throat that you know looks like vomit, but you do it anyway.
Reality: Then you remember carbs exist and stuff your face with sugar cereals or pancakes because your 30 calorie beverage you actually called breakfast two minutes ago has left you hungrier than you were before you drank it.
Expectation: You tell yourself you will go on long runs everyday. No big, should be easy. In fact, you’re super pumped because you just added some great new jams to the playlist you just made called “workoutttt :)” You go, Sporty Spice.
Reality: After the first minute or two you’re hot, sweaty and want to die. Running sucks. You would rather be out of shape than endure this awful suffering that people call exercise.
Expectation: After your first ab workout you think you’re a big deal and run to the mirror to check out that six-pack that must have magically developed. That was a really intense set of crunches, and you’re feeling confident!
Reality: The only six-pack you have is the crappy beer sitting in your micro-fridge that you will probably be drinking this weekend.
Expectations: You’re being good now, so that means no drunk eating. Late night takeout is kind of gross anyway and you always regret it. You will easily just say NO when 2 a.m. rolls around and your roomies want to order something fattening and delicious.
Reality: You remember Dominoes is open and your drunchies are kicking in. Everyone on your floor has ordered pizza and you cannot resist. Nothing has ever looked tastier than that greasy, mediocre pie. It was just you and the pizza and in that moment, you swore you were infinite.
and you don’t just stop at the one slice of pizza…
Needless to say dieting and exercise is hard work. Don’t hit yourself over the head for not having the “perfect” body. Eating healthy and exercising is great, but so is eating pizza and pancakes. It is important to stay active and workout, just don’t go overboard and treat yourself to those tempting snacks you love. Everything in moderation. Remember spring break is about relaxing and having fun! Keep your schedule clear and enjoy your time off.