One for the Parents: Staying Fit

So far in this blog, we have covered a lot of the more food-based side of nutrition. However, we must remember that eating right is only half the equation- the other half involves keeping an active lifestyle. For some, staying physically fit and healthy in college can be easier said than done. Exams and homework pile up, the occasional parties come along, and for those in dorms, that food is way too darn convenient (which doesn't always equate with nutritious!) With such circumstances, it is easy to see how some of us have given in to the "Freshman 15", or even more.

I can only imagine that student-parenting adds just that much more to the number of responsibilities and tasks to complete. It is then only understandable that hitting the gym isn't exactly the greatest priority in your lives. That does not mean, though, that you can't get a good workout in! In the four years I have been on the U. of I. campus, I have picked up a few good habits for staying active. Here are a couple tips:

-Schedule at least an hour a day for activity: Making it an obligation to yourself to workout will make you more likely to follow through. Make it a routine- perhaps first thing in the morning in your room: sit ups, crunches, jumprope, you name it. Give yourself just that one hour, and it'll all add up to make you a stronger, healthier person.

-Use work out videos: If you want some regiment and direction from your hour of workout time, dvds can be a great source of instruction. Simply go to your local libraries and check out the ones that appeal to you. From yoga, to step aerobics, to zumba, find what interests you the most, and it'll become less of a "chore" to stay active.

-Walk, walk, walk: It's a foolproof mode of transportation! Especially on this campus, walking can be one of the best ways to burn off calories in a given day. Try and refrain from using the buses on the immediate campus. Everything here is not much more than a 10-20 minute walk. Walk to your classes, and suddenly, you have added just that much more excersice to your daily routine!

-Include the kids: Working out doesn't mean that you have to take off your mommy/daddy hat. Playing with your children can be an excellent way to stay active. You may even want to go on walks with them, combining both workout and quality time. In the end, just use your time to your greatest advantage!

Hopefully these tips will come in handy when it comes to leading a fitter life. I know that many of you worry about gaining weight in college, especially with your busy schedules. However, I am telling you right now, if you take charge, this fear will not only be unfounded, but you may find the exact opposite to occur. How do I know? Well, as my undergraduate career comes to a close, I will have lost 50lb since I entered college. Don't believe me? Here:

With a little embarrassment, I show these picture not to brag, but to let you all know that living a healthy lifestyle is out of no one's reach. I consider myself a very busy student, but I found a way to become a fitter, happier individual, thanks greatly in part to the tips I have just mentioned. So get out there (with your kids) and be active!

Happy Eatings (and Exercise)!

Riley Guillet
-Anth249 H