Everyone has heard of or gained the freshman 15. If you haven’t the “Freshman 15” is 15 lbs most college students gain. College students gain this weight due to a new life schedule, new food, and new way of life. Here are some ways to get rid of or prevent this weight gain.
1. Go to the Gym
The Campbell’s Wellness Center in the Jones PE building is free and open to all UNCP students with a Brave Card. You can look up the hours of operations on the Campus Recreation site.
2. Walk to Class
Instead of using your car and wasting gas, try walking to your classes instead to get the extra exercise. This also helps the headache of finding a parking space.
3. Rental Bikes
There are 25 rental bikes available to all students. If you’re afraid you’ll be late for class by walking, rent a bike located at the UC.
4. Sleep
Recent studies have shown that sleep deprivation is linked to weight gain. As college students, it’s hard to get that nine hours in so try to find a quiet place (maybe the library) and take a quick nap during the day.
5. Yoga
Stress can cause you to not pay attention to what you are eating. Yoga is a great way to stretch out the tension from school and work and relax. See yoga schedule above.
6. Zumba Zumba is a great form of cardio and a great way to get rid of those calories you consumed throughout the day. It’s also fun. See zumba schedule above.
7. Eat healthy in the cafe
With so many options to choose from in the cafeteria, it’s hard to make the right decision. Try using the salad bar every other day or eating fruit and granola for breakfast.
8. Don’t swipe your card for JUNK
During snack time, you want something quick and fulfilling. Unfortunately that results in a bag of chips or cookies from the bookstore or snack machine. Try to refrain from using your brave card to buy junk food.
9. Drink lots of water
It’s really easy to get dehydrated and you might not notice until it’s too late. In the morning grab a large water bottle and drink and fill it up throughout the day. Every building on campus has a water fountain.
10. Buy quick healthy snacks
Use the snack machines for good. Try picking up an apple or small salad from Simply To Go or buying a smoothie for a quick burst of energy.
11. Go for a jog
At the end of a long stressful day go for a jog around the campus. This will give you fresh air from being shut in classrooms and dorms all day and a chance to look at the scenery around the campus.
12. Sports
Get involved in a sport. You don’t have to be a UNCP athlete to play sports. Campus Recreation offers flag football, bowling and tennis tournaments, softball, disk golf and more. Go to the Campus recreation site for more information
13. Don’t snack too late in the evening
Studies show that your metabolism slows down at the end of the day. Try not eat too late in the evening or refrain from late night snacks.
14. Eat Breakfast
Always start the day off with a good breakfast. This will give you energy throughout the day. If you are running late to class, try grabbing something quick like fruit or yogurt to go.
15. PE classes (adds an extra credit)
PE classes are a great way to force yourself to be more active. The pressure of getting a good grade will push you to exercise.
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