Tale as old as time: An 18-year-old with a new sense of independence discovers the dining hall is all-you-can-eat and you can stay as long as you want.
Before you realize it, weeks of eating soft-serve ice cream and what is surprisingly a really good burger every day for dinner catch up to you, and none of the three pairs of jeans you brought feel baggy anymore.
Yes, the scary legend of the “Freshman 15” has struck again.
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is important for a college student. It happens to many of us, and while there is nothing to be ashamed of, here is some advice on how to avoid the dreaded Freshman 15.
First and foremost, take advantage of the healthy options in the dining hall. It is still OK to eat pizza and burgers, but it is about moderation and being mindful of what and how much you eat. It can be easy to get swept away and stack five plates high. However, it is completely possible to satisfy your cravings with two.
The “True Balance” section of the dining hall is ideal for those trying to be more health-conscious. For allergy reasons, staff members prepare the plate for you, which helps prevent overeating and overfilling your plate. Other stations in the dining hall can also be modified to fit your health needs.
Let’s be honest: You do not need rice and fries. A bowl of soup or a side salad is a simple way to make sure you are not leaving hungry. And if you cannot resist the self-serve ice cream, consider opting for a bowl of fruit and a brownie if you want something sweet.
If diet changes are not enough, the Overlook Fitness Center and the Rec Center offer free options for students looking to take control of their exercise routine. Both facilities feature machines for cardio and strength training, offering something for everyone. They can be a great way to get in a workout after class at no cost.
The Rec Center also has a basketball court if that is how you prefer to get your heart rate up. Looking for something more relaxed? The Overlook Fitness Center has a dedicated room for yoga, mat exercises and stretching. It is an ideal space for activities such as Pilates and Zumba.
Wightman Gym also offers options such as free swim, providing a fun way to incorporate cardio into your routine.
If you do not have the time to commit to a structured workout routine, evaluate your daily habits and make small changes. The William Paterson University campus is known as “Bill on the Hill,” and the walk from your car to class can already break a sweat. Still, there are additional ways to stay active.
Consider taking the stairs instead of the elevator or parking a little farther from campus to get in extra steps when the weather is warmer. Making healthier choices goes beyond eating habits. The next time you think about driving somewhere or taking the elevator, pause and ask yourself whether there is a more active option.
Even if you do everything right, you may still gain some weight. That is natural, so do not be too hard on yourself. As long as you are healthy and able to go about your day, you will be fine.
At the end of the day, the goal is to stay active, maintain balance and adopt a lifestyle that works for you. If you have health concerns, contact the Counseling, Health and Wellness Center at 973-720-2257.
