Tips for staying healthy and fit while in college

Rashundra Powell
Staff Writer

Staying healthy and fit during college matriculation is a goal of many students. Unfortunately  lack of motivation and health knowledge hinders many from reaching these goals. When school starts, many students become so stressed out due to the new environment and heavy work-loads that their health and fitness routines suffer.

Here are five tips to help students stay healthy and fit in college:

Tip 1: Eat Breakfast
 A lot of students skip this step every morning even though it is no secret that breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Eating breakfast will not only keep you more alert in class, but it will also prevent binging throughout the day. Even if it is only a cereal bar, or simply a piece of fruit, anything is better than nothing at all.

Tip 2: Healthy Snacks
Students who live on campus will usually keep snacks in their dorms for to snack on during homework and study session or simply to munch on when relaxing.  Instead of the usual chips, cookies, cakes, and sodas try keeping more healthy snacks such as, fruit, vegetables,  and snacks that are low in sugar and fat. And most importantly, drink lots of water.

Tip 3: Stay Active
Almost every college has a recreational center. Jackson State University’s Recreation Complex has a number of activities for students to participate in including boot camps, aerobics, intramural sports, Zumba, cycling and much more.  Try to get at least 30 minutes of physical activity a day.  Moreover, students who become involved in sports have a major advantage in staying shape.

Tip 4: Avoid Stress
Stress is a major problem when it comes to getting in shape. Stress can cause sugar and fat cravings. Stress can also cause depression which leads to inactivity. Physical activity and eating healthy can prevent stress.

Tip 5: Ask For Help
If you need help with staying fit and healthy, ask for it.  JSU has several programs available to help you.  If stress is your issue, contact the Latasha Norman Center for help. If you need a fitness routine, the Recreation Complex has trainers available. And there is much more help available, but you will not know until you ask.