With a little more than a month left of the spring semester, NYU collegiettes are realizing that summer vacation is just around the corner. While summer means no more classes, sunshine, tanning, swimming, and frozen treats, for many collegiettes summer brings an overwhelming pressure to achieve the perfect bikini body. While getting in summer shape may seem like impossible to some, with planning and dedication, collegiettes can hit the beach confident in their bikinis.
Before beginning the quest for the best body, collegiettes should realize that obtaining the perfect bikini body is ultimately an unattainable goal because no matter what size you are there will always be something that you wish would be different. Rather than reach for the unreachable, create realistic goals and write them down in a visible place. “Knowing your goals makes ‘em easier to achieve,” said Pete McCall, an exercise physiologist, in an article for Shape Magazine online. Once you have your set goals, it is time to figure out how to achieve them.
The first step to getting in shape is to make a plan. With a month left of classes, it is most logical to make a month long plan. Schedule in times to hit Coles or Palladium and decide what workouts you will do when. It is best to write down the schedule because by writing it down, you are more likely to follow through with it. Plus, if it is written down, you can experience the satisfaction of checking off each workout after you complete it.
If you are struggling to figure out what exercises to check off, there’s an app for that. There are numerous iPhone apps designed to structure workouts and provide guidance. Nike Training Club, “full-body workouts that will take your training to the next level,” according to the Nike website, is just one of many that will help you achieve your fitness goals.
In order to avoid mental and muscular strain, be sure to include some alternative forms of exercise in your schedule. If you have completed a lot of cardio during the week, stretch out your sore muscles at Yoga to the People. With a convenient location on St. Mark’s Place, this donation-based yoga studio will provide your body with the release of any physical and/or mental tension you may be experiencing.
To avoid boredom, incorporate fun and enjoyable workouts. Biking along the river with friends is a fun way to get in some cardio. Rent-a-bike charges $8 to rent a bike for an hour. If you can’t or choose not to ride bikes, try a dance class. Peridance, located on 13th Street between Third and Fourth Avenue, offers a student discount on all classes ranging from Zumba to Ballet.
The most important thing to remember in any fitness endeavor is that getting in shape and being fit is good for your heart and your overall physical and mental health. To quote Elle Woods, “Exercise gives you endorphins. Endorphins make you happy.” In this last month, get fit, get happy, and get into that bikini.