How To Fit Your Health Into All Those Units

Tips for Fitting In Fitness For Students

The new school year approaches and that means life ramps up again. The chaotic lifestyles begin and it can be hard to transition from a carefree schedule into a structured one.

As someone who recently graduated from college I understand trying to fit in a healthy lifestyle between juggling classes, assignments, relationships, work, and whatever else the college experience brings. It can be challenging to find time to work out and cook with such a hectic schedule. 

Sometimes it feels nearly impossible but I am here to tell you that you can make the best progress in the gym when you’re life is busy. Since you probably have such a strict schedule it is easier to block out time and focus rather than letting yourself get distracted. If you only have 1 hour a day to work out between classes, mentally you know that you only have that time so excuses tend to go out the window. The same goes for eating healthy, if you prep your food and are short on time it is easier for you to stick to your nutrition goals. Rather than run to Taco Bell which takes more time sometimes because fast food isn’t always fast these days. Plus, when you are eating healthy food you’ll feel sharper and more energized for all your workload. 

So here are some of the best tips I can give you as someone who has already graduated and how I stayed consistence with taking 20 units and working part-time. 

1. Set realistic goals

   1. Define clear, achievable fitness goals. Don’t try and achieve everything in one day, break it down into smaller steps!

   2. Break down long-term goals into smaller more manageable steps.

2. Create a flexible schedule

   1. Find pockets of free time in your weekly schedule to add in a workout.

   2. Opt for shorter, high-intensity workouts if you have a busy day

   3. Be open to adjusting your routine based on your workload. Maybe you can’t work out that day, take the stairs then, or you only have time for a set of squats. Something is better than nothing!

3. Find a workout buddy

   1. A workout partner can help you stay accountable to your scheduled gym appointment. 

4. Utilize campus resources

   1. Take advantage of the school gym or the fitness classes they offer!

   2. If you are feeling overwhelmed many colleges offer free counseling use it! You are paying for it in your tuition! 

5. Incorporate exercise into your daily routine

   1. Instead of parking super close to your classes, park out to get your steps in. Maybe take those stairs instead of using the elevator. Take a minute to stretch between classes because sitting and hunching over isn’t good for the body!

6. Plan Ahead

   1. Schedule your workouts like your classes or other appointments. Pack your gym bag the night before to avoid excuses.

   2. Plan your meals for the week and if you have time, prep them so you know what you will eat the next day!

7. Try and stay motivated

   1. Track your progress in a journal or fitness app. Reward yourself for reaching those goals. Keep your workouts fun and varied to prevent boredom!

8. Prioritize your sleep

   1. Sleep is when the body fully recovers and gets it ready to perform well!

9. Stay hydrated & eat well

   1. Drink plenty of water throughout your day to avoid dehydration after your workout! 

   2. Eat a balanced diet to fill those long hours of studying and workouts. 

10. Be kind to yourself

    1. College can be stressful, if you miss a workout know it isn’t the end of the world! Don’t be discouraged if you fall off track just get back on the next day!

I am interested in hearing what you are currently doing or did when you were in college to have a healthy lifestyle. Comment down below your ideas or stories so we can learn from each other! If you feel super stressed out know you’ll get through it! I hope everyone has a great school year!