By Brianna Llewellyn, Staff Writer
Freshman fifteen is not just for freshman. Pressures from class, studying, homework, social life, and jobs challenge almost every college student. These issues become even more pressing when a college student realizes that they are expected to balance all aspects of their life on their own. With all these problems, it’s easy for a college student to begin to neglect and sacrifice the most important piece of the puzzle, the fuel of life, food.
But, have no fear I am here to help get all of our eating habits in check with a few tips Ive gathered since freshman year.
So we all know about The University’s buffet style cafeteria, right? Sometimes having such a large assortment of foods can cause people to get carried away with serving sizes, and this leads to overeating. Still, every Monday through Friday during lunch and dinner the salad, deli, and vegetarian style stations are always up and running serving fresh vegetables and lean meats to the masses.
However, if you like to have your cake and eat it too, find the local gym. Just about every dorm has one, Except for Roderick, alumni, and freshman dorms. As a result, residents of these halls are permitted to use the mini-gyms in apartment five.
The fitness center on campus is located on the south side of campus, next to the parking garage.
Our fitness center offers a range of different machines, and weights available to anyone with a Saint Leo ID. The fitness center also host classes Monday through Saturday that include boxing, yoga, and cardio training.
Also, if you are worried about finding time to take a class The University’s Fitness Center also offers personal trainers at a discounted rate for students and staff members.
Here’s another alternative if you’re afraid to be commit to a weekly exercise regimen. Try taking an actual course that specializes in physical health and fitness. This way you’ll be more likely to exercise, even if it’s only because you are being graded for it.
In general it helps to just be more active. Actively choose to use the stairs instead of the elevator. Actively make healthier food choices. If you decide not to take a scheduled fitness course this semester, than choose to set a specific time on specific days set aside just to go to the gym. Even 30 minutes a day, to begin with, is good.
If you are working towards a specific goal by exercising and dieting be realistic. Don’t expect to shed an outrageous number of pounds during the first week. Also don’t compare your progress to anyone else’s. Everyone’s body is different. If you make a mistake, or miss a workout at the gym don’t beat yourself up about it. Stay positive.
Lastly, stay safe. Do not let a healthy decision to stay active turn into an unhealthy obsession or an eating disorder. If you experience symptoms of depression from over exercising or an eating disorder please seek professional help. Contact the national Toll Free information and referral hotline at 1-800-931-2237
