It is apparent that entering college comes with many lifestyle adjustments. I am currently settling into freshman year, which has proven itself to be a big change. Amidst this craziness, I have struggled to figure out the most effective way to incorporate wellness into my life. For me, exercise is mentally healing and an outlet for my stress. Therefore, it was one of my top priorities that I continued my fitness journey in college. Beyond just the physical benefits, I feel every college student can find emotional and mental benefits in exercise. So whether you are just starting your journey with wellness or are struggling to adjust it into your college routine, there are many ways to balance physical well-being!
For starters, many of us are paying a fair amount of money to go to college. At this price, come many free and accessible facilities, such as some kind of recreational center. My biggest piece of advice would be to take advantage of this! These rec centers offer many instructor-led classes, which are helpful when getting into fitness. Many of these are also free (which is a huge bonus!). Additionally, if you are a person who wants to build strength, and begin a weightlifting program, there are trainers at their recreational facilities as well! You can also run on the track, swim a quick lap, play basketball or join an intramural sport. The options are endless! With all of these options, everyone can find something that they enjoy, and that they have time for.
Time is also one of the biggest and most important factors when it comes to making a workout routine. My biggest piece of advice is to purchase a planner or another way to organize all of your responsibilities. From there, it is easier to see when you have free time. For example, I often find myself going to the gym in between classes, and doing a shorter version of my routine. Do not feel pressured to put yourself into a certain “fitness” box. You do not need to limit yourself to certain activities or exercises. Even just a brisk amount of physical activity can transform your confidence, health and overall well-being!
The biggest piece of advice I have to give is to find what you specifically enjoy. Fitness and well-being are different for everyone, and you do not need to look a certain way or do certain exercises to be considered fit. Some prefer to do heavy lifting 5 days a week, whereas others do pilates 3 days a week, some do sports, etc. The point is, find what you love to do, and move in ways that feel good for your body and healing for your mind! Even just going on a brisk walk is a great form of exercise. Toxic exercise and diet culture can feel tempting, however, it is not feasible nor healthy to feed into these standards. Being in college is already stressful enough, and fitness should be an outlet to release these stressors, not a contributing factor.
Investing in wellbeing is investing in yourself! Do not let your busy schedule or routines limit you from being the best version of yourself. Taking advantage of the facilities provided for you, balancing time and finding what you specifically enjoy are the best ways to incorporate fitness into your college experience.
