Ah, the freshman 15. Snacking on subway, the minimal physical activity from studying too hard (and still managing to get a C on that paper), and watching the pounds quickly creep on with confusion as to how your actions managed this in the first place. For some, this nostalgic tale seems all too familiar. Yet there were those savvy athletes who continued with their track and field, soccer, or basic work out routines throughout high school and thus, their weight did not fluctuate as easily as some of ours did.
This year I realized however that just because I hoped on board the freshman 15 train in first year, did not mean that the ride suddenly ends by second, third, or even fourth year. You can get accustomed to these eating (and living) habits even while striving for a balance in your everyday life. Hence ladies, I have some suggestions to encourage a productive and healthy way to balance out your health with the rest of your academic life.
The Athletic Centre/Hart House
We pay for these facilities anyways, why not take advantage of them? There is plenty of equipment to meet your exercise needs: cardio, strength training, swimming, etc. If you don’t know where to start, try joining one of the free scheduled classes that are designed to meet your desired workout routine. Sounds easy right? Not necessarily. What if you just don’t feel up to getting into your gym clothing, what if you simply don’t have the time, and what if you feel a little self-conscious with everyone around? The solution: Wii & Youtube.
Wii
Oh, Wii.. You are the cutest game system to come out since Nintendo 64. And millions love you for your Zumba Fit and Just Dance games. This is a time-efficient and easier alternative to the gym, although don’t expect the same results. It’s a great way to get fit without leaving the comfort of your own living room, and a way to get a decent study break without packing all of your things into locker and taking them back out again.
Youtube
What if you feel like being inventive with your routine? What if you live in a dorm and don’t want to disturb others with Wii games? (They’re just too fun!) Youtube content creators are awesome. They record some of the Dance and Zumba games for Xbox and Wii allowing you to practice only with your computer.
Dance class
Maybe the Rhumba is your calling, perhaps you’d like some Bollywood in your diet, or maybe you just want to brush up on your waltz.
Eating Habits
I won’t tell you how and what to eat: That is totally up to you. I can tell you that it’s best to think about what you’re eating more so than how much you choose to eat. You will be amazed at how much energy you’ll save by switching to real sugar (i.e. in fruits like apples) instead of habitually snacking on chocolate or chips (in fact, studies have shown that you will like healthier foods more if you choose them more often).
However you choose to take care of your body and mind, remember to keep a balance in the different aspects of your life. Remember that it helps to be healthy because you want to, not because you have to.