Health Tips for College Students Looking To Get Fit

So it’s the second semester, your jeans fit just a tad tighter than they did in September, and your eating habits have fallen somewhere between fast food on the daily and “what’s a salad?” But here it is, some health tips for any college student looking to get back on track and ultimately, get fit. Best part? You don’t even have to leave campus.




This weeks questions are all about:

Fitness

Q: Is there anything that helps get you motivated to workout? I’m stuck.

A: This may sound silly, but one thing that really gets me motivated to workout is buying cute workout clothes/fitness related items. If I really love the item, I want to show it off…which encourages me to go to the gym to do just that. Killer new leggings? Guess I have to go for a run so everyone will see. Treat yourself to a pair of quality and super trendy leggings from Gymshark. Super cute new sweat towel? Gotta put it on display at the gym. A super cute water bottle you’ll want to bring with you everywhere? S’well water bottles are the perfect picks since they keep your water ice cold for 24 hours!





Q: The gym is super intimidating with all these guys lifting and using the big machines. How do I get in there and look like I know what I’m doing?



A: When I first started using the gym I didn’t want to go near the big, scary machines for fear of looking like a newbie. But in reality, I was a newbie. If you know somebody experienced in the gym, take them with you. They’ll be more than likely happy to show you how to use the machines properly. And if none of your crew is involved in the gym, ask an employee, THAT’S THEIR JOB. I know it seems super embarrassing to look helpless, but in the end you’ll be pumping more iron than your body knew was possible. I believe in you, girl.



Q: I’ve been wanting to download a calorie counter app but there are SO MANY that I don’t know which one to get. What do you think is the best one and how do I use it if I’m not even sure how to calculate calories?



A: I’ve recently downloaded the MyFitnessPal app, and it is literally the most amazing thing for someone looking to get fit. Just plug in what you ate all day and it automatically records how many calories you need and how many calories you’ve eaten. Plus, it records your steps and calculates the calories you’ve burned (you can also enter any other exercise you’ve completed and it will add in the average amount of calories burned from the activity). So if you’re not super into eating healthy at least this is a way to eat in moderation without overdoing it!




TIPS AND TRICKS FOR THOSE DAYS WHEN WORKING OUT SEEMS IMPOSSIBLE
Make a Pinterest board of your goals for your fitness regimen.

Pinterest has SO MANY great tips on workouts, meal plans, and just plain motivation to get fit. I look at all the fit bods on there and it makes me want to dedicate my life to planks and burpees.

You can’t just go into a fitness routine, lifting your body weight and expect it to be easy. Don’t be afraid to start with small weights and build up from there.



PLEASE don’t be that person that puts makeup on to go to the gym.

Odds are you’re going to sweat it all off anyway, and I’d rather see a makeup-free face than raccoon eyes. Don’t be afraid to just go as you are and kick butt while doing it.



It’s all about balance.

One of my favorite quotes from an unknown author is “eating one bad meal won’t make you fat. Just like eating one salad won’t make you skinny,” and this is completely true. If you’re looking to lose a few pounds or even just get fit, it’s going to take some time. Have faith, patience, and with enough dedication, you’re dream bod will fall into place.



The salad bar should be your new best friend.

I know college campuses can sometimes have some sketchy meals, so as soon as I walk into the caf I head straight for the salad bar. I try to stick to a lot of veggies, but I occasionally opt for fries on top of my salad as a part of making it through the week. (We deserve it, right?) After I’m done with my salad, THEN I check out what the dining hall has for its main meal and stick to smaller portions.



One thing I hope to point out, to women especially, is that the scale doesn’t matter.

You can be skinny and unhealthy, or heavy set and healthy. Focus on toning your muscles instead of dropping the pounds, eating healthier rather than focusing on fast food, and being the best version of yourself that you can possibly be.



So whether or not you’re looking to get fit, or just searching for some tips to get your body back into shape; counting calories, eating right, and exercising on a daily basis are sure-fire ways to accomplish the type of body you’re striving for.

Featured image source: alwaysrunning2thegym.